WPBO Birdathon
Birdathon is Back!
This year, it was a Big Day with 180 species counted!
Date: May 24, 2025
It was a wonderful day for our passionate team of bird enthusiasts and volunteers as they counted 180 species on May 24 – all to raise essential funds for Michigan Audubon’s vital avian research at Whitefish Point Bird Observatory (WPBO) in Paradise, Michigan. This year, we expanded our count territory beyond Chippewa County to include Alger, Delta, Luce, Mackinac, and Schoolcraft Counties – inviting more birders to join the fun and put their skills to the test.
Our Goal? Raise $10,000 for conservation and research at WPBO! You can donate directly to support our fieldwork.
By supporting Birdathon, even after the event, you’ll make a meaningful impact. All donors will receive the exclusive 2025 Birdathon Big Day Species List, a testament to your contribution and our gratitude.. Every dollar supports conservation efforts and critical research positions at WPBO, which requires $100,000 annually to fund seven dedicated research staff and operational needs.
- Simply click here to donate to Birdathon Big Day now
- Or mail a check to: (please include Birdathon Big Day in the memo)
Michigan Audubon
2310 Science Parkway, Suite 200
Okemos, MI 48864
Birdathon Big Day 2025 per-species pledge updates reflect the 180 species counted on May 24.
- $5 per species = $900
- $2 per species = $360
- $1 per species = $180
- $0.50 per species = $90
- $0.25 per species = $45
Pledge fulfillment letters will be sent the week of May 26.
Help Protect Migrating Birds at WPBO
Our dedicated team of seasonal researchers works tirelessly to monitor and protect migrating birds across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. From raptor and waterbird counts in the spring and fall to summer monitoring of the endangered Piping Plover – the work at WPBO is entirely funded by donors like you.
We’ve partnered with Seney National Wildlife Refuge to protect Piping Plovers, but a current pause in federal funding has placed their annual $10,000 contribution in jeopardy. That’s why your support is more critical than ever.
Funds raised help sustain key research positions, including:
- Spring and fall Raptor and Waterbird Counters
- Piping Plover Monitor, protecting an endangered species
- Field Ornithologist, engaging with visitors and leading bird walks
- NEW in 2025: Songbird morning flight monitoring
These roles require funding for housing, equipment, and supplies —your donations make it all possible!
Thank you for participating in Michigan Audubon’s mission to connect birds and people for the benefit of both through conservation, research, and education.
