Whitefish Point Bird Observatory is located at the end of N. Whitefish Point Road, 11 miles north of Paradise, Michigan. The WPBO Banding Lab is located across the parking lot from the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum and lighthouse. During count seasons, the hawk deck and waterbird shack are open to visitors. During the owl banding seasons, visitors can observe the owl banders in action on Friday and Saturday evenings from dusk until midnight.

DATE: September 27/28/29, 2024

TIME: see below

ATTENDEES – Members and non-members are welcome

MEET LOCATION: Saturday the 28th  AND Sunday the 29th – Whitefish Point Bird Observatory parking lot.
7 am (for those staying overnight)  – if you miss us at 7, look for us near the observation shed on the point.

10:30 am (same-day drivers): If you miss us at 10:30, look for us at the observation shed on the point.

I will text the phone number you supply in the registration form with updates (if there is a signal)

LEADER(s): Brian Murphy

BIRDING – Whitefish Point is one of the premier birding hotspots in the eastern United States. Fall migration, although unpredictable, can be amazing. Owl banding observation is optional and not always available.

PLAN:   This will be an all-weekend event, join in at your convenience.

     Friday the 27th – early arrivers-  if you arrive Friday, look for LWBA birders along the boardwalk or at the shed. No promises you will find anyone. Also, we will try to attend the OWL BANDING OBSERVATION. Owl Banding Info

     Saturday the 28th – two meeting times, 7 am and 10:30 am. After birding the point during the morning hours we will explore other birding trails nearby, then eat an early meal in Paradise, leaving time for an evening visit back to the point, or OWL BANDING OBSERVATION.  Owl Banding Info

     Sunday the 29th – two meeting times, 7 am and 10:30 am. After birding the point during the morning hours we will explore other birding trails nearby, then eat an early meal in Paradise, leaving time for evening birding back at Whitefish Point.

Please do not play bird recordings. If you leave early, please inform your guide. Important: Please review our birding guidelines.

CONDITIONS: The point is open and barren and can be windy, with rocky, uneven walking conditions.  Bathrooms located near the lighthouse, some may be port-a-johns; bring water, snacks, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, and bug dope. Wear sturdy shoes and rugged (LONG) pants. Please come prepared for the predicted weather.

Accommodations – non-campers can receive a reduced rate at  Magnuson Hotel, 10% off (tell them you are with Laughing Whitefish Bird Alliance) PLEASE HURRY in making reservations, rooms are limited. The nearby Paradise Inn has only two rooms remaining (no discount).  You can also try Taquamenon Suites Lodging. Other alternatives are motels in Newberry or Brimley.

Meals – On Saturday we plan to eat as a group around 4 pm, location TBA. This will leave time for evening birding and OWL BANDING OBSERVATION.

Recommended(by birders) breakfast location – Berry Patch

For other meals – The Inn, the Brew Pub at Taquamenon Falls State Park,  Wheelhouse Diner and Goatlocker Pub, Fresh Coast Cafe

PLEASE READ OVER THE WPBO visitor page.

CAR POOLING – please e-mail brianmnc52@gmail.com and I will try to connect you with others.

CANCELATION:  if conditions prevent a safe and enjoyable outing, the event will be canceled within ONE HOUR of the starting time via text messages and Facebook announcement.

RAIN DATE -SUNDAY the 29th is the rain date for Sat. the 28th

QUESTIONS RE this outing: email brianmnc52@gmail.com, or text 919-225-7323

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER