Celebrating Spring Migration at Whitefish Point — A Webinar Series

Many of you already know and respect just how crucial avian research is, but do you know what makes Whitefish Point Bird Observatory such an excellent place for these research efforts to take place?

Tune in with us each Thursday in May to learn about topics inspired by our research at WPBO in a free four-part webinar series! There is a little something for everyone as we take cues from our spring research subjects, from owl banding to hawk and waterbird counts to Piping Plover conservation efforts, and celebrate what makes spring migration at the Point special.

The most important thing to know about these webinars — you don’t have to be a “bird nerd” to enjoy them! They are a great opportunity to learn ID tips, find out more about how you can be an advocate for the birds you love, and be inspired to get out there and visit the Point!

You can join us via Zoom (registration required), watch on Facebook, or wait for the recording to be made available through our YouTube page. Check out the individual descriptions below for registration links.

Owls of Whitefish Point
May 6

Would you like to learn more about the owls at Whitefish Point? Join us for a presentation by Owl Banders Chris Neri and Nova Mackentley, who introduce the ten species of owls seen at the Point, explain the banding process, and review data collected over the years. Their wealth of knowledge about the owl banding history at WPBO is enlightening and inspirational! Please note that Chris and Nova’s presentation is prerecorded (they are in the middle of their banding season, after all!). We will have other avian experts and WPBO veterans on hand to answer your questions about these wondrous raptors and how banding supports avian research efforts.

Raptor Identification and Field Marks
May 13

Are you one of the many people who find raptor identification to be tricky? Join us for a presentation by Hawk Counter Rich Couse as he covers the basics of raptor ID. Rich will share his tips and tricks that he utilizes as the hawk counter at Whitefish Point Bird Observatory (where he is currently serving his second season at the WPBO Hawk Deck) and other hawk watching sites across the country. From field marks to flight style, Rich will cover the tools you need to distinguish between Sharp-shinned and Red-tailed Hawks, Golden and Bald Eagles, and more.

Demystifying Great Lakes Waterbirds
May 20

Having trouble distinguishing what dabbling duck you are observing? Or maybe you aren’t sure how to tell the difference between a Long-tailed Duck and a Red-necked Grebe from afar. Join us for Waterbird Counter Matthew Winkler’s presentation breaking down his methods used to unravel waterbird identifications. For many of us, identifying ducks, loons, and grebes in flight comes with a high intimidation factor; these waterbirds travel quickly, and some are only subtly different. Matthew will help break down these barriers and help you better enjoy lakewatching and all of the exciting birding it offers! Matthew is excited to share his experience with you and answer questions regarding waterbird ID and the waterbird count at Whitefish Point Bird Observatory.

Sharing the Shore: Piping Plovers in Michigan
May 27

Each year a section of the Whitefish Point shore is cordoned off, protecting the Piping Plovers that return each year to rear their young. Join us for a presentation by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Piping Plover expert Jillian Farkas as she reviews the history and importance of Piping Plover conservation efforts. Jillian will cover the basic conservation history of the species, highlight what work is currently being done to increase their population, and ways you can help.

Whitefish Point Bird Observatory has been home to avian research efforts for more than 40 years. Ranking among one of the most important migration sites in North America, research conducted at WPBO significantly contributes to an ongoing effort to increase knowledge of bird migration, encourage public awareness of birds and the environment, and further critical bird conservation.

If you have questions about this webinar series, please contact Education Coordinator Lindsay Cain at lcain@michiganaudubon.org or 517-580-7364.