This Saturday is National Public Lands Day, and we’ve got three ways to make the most of the nation’s largest, single-day volunteer event for public lands and national parks – by engaging with Michigan’s birds!
Visit a nearby Important Bird Area
Did you know that many state game and wildlife areas double as Important Bird Areas? IBAs are places that are vital for the conservation of bird populations. Researchers need help monitoring IBAs and mapping bird ranges, especially in state game and wildlife areas. You can be a citizen scientist and report your observations on eBird, a global community science database. Having more data from these often-underrepresented state game and wildlife areas gives eBird researchers a better understanding of the IBAs and the birds using them. On your next visit, help advance conservation efforts by sharing your bird sightings on eBird or at MiBirds@Audubon.org.
To plan your birding trip, check out the Michigan Hunting Digest for hunting season start dates, or call your local DNR center or field office. Birders are advised to wear brightly colored clothing, as fall hunting will be in full swing.
For a full list of IBAs near you, including public lands across Michigan, visit Audubon.org. A Recreation Passport is required for vehicle access to state parks and recreation areas.
Experience Michigan waterfowl hunting
Access to quality public lands is a big part of the fall hunting tradition in Michigan. Explore Michigan’s Wetland Wonders during waterfowl hunting season.
Early teal and goose hunting seasons opened Sept. 1 statewide. Duck, coot and merganser seasons open Sept. 26 (north), Oct. 3 (middle) and Oct. 10 (south). Visit Michigan.gov/Waterfowl for regulations, bag limits and additional waterfowl hunting details.
Join us online
If you can’t make it outdoors this year, you can still celebrate National Public Lands by visiting MI Birds online – it’s your one-stop shop for all things birds in Michigan. Follow MI Birds on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or visit the website.
The DNR is responsible for nearly 4.6 million acres of public lands owned by Michigan residents – state parks, trails, game and wildlife areas, forests and developed facilities like boat launches and fish hatcheries. We’re currently updating the strategy used to guide public land ownership and ensure maximum benefit for residents and the state’s natural resources. Join us virtually to review and provide feedback on newly released draft components
