Field Trip: Whitefish Point Bird Observatory

September 26/27/28, 2025

TIME: 9-11am and 11:30-12:30pm. Also the raptor deck conducting a morning flight count from 15 minutes before sunrise until about 8:45am. Details about timing for each day can be found below.

MEET LOCATION: Saturday the 27th AND Sunday the 28th – Whitefish Point Bird Observatory parking lot at 8:45am. We will text the phone number you supply in the registration form with updates (if there is a signal).

LEADER: Jeff Towner

ATTENDEES: Members and non-members are welcome to attend.

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: Clay Bliznik, resident ornithologist for Michigan Audobon at WBPO will be leading these scheduled bird walks. For LWBA this will be an all-event weekend, join at your convenience, but the guided walks are as described.

   – Friday the 26th – early arrivers – if you arrive Friday, look for LWBA birders along the boardwalk or at the shed. No promises you will find anyone.

   – Saturday the 27th – two meeting times, 15 minutes before bird walks, 8:45am and 11:15am. 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.

   – Sunday the 28th – two meeting times, same as Saturday, 8:45am and 11:15am. 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 at Whitefish Point or travel home.

Please do not play bird recordings. Please inform your guide if you leave early. IMPORTANT – please review our birding guidelines.

CONDITIONS: The point is open and barren and can be windy, with rocky, uneven walking conditions. Bathrooms are 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.

ACCOMODATION: Non-campers may want to check-out nearby options including the nearby Paradise Inn, Paradise Lakefront Lodge, and Taquamenon Suites Lodging. Other alternatives are motels in Newberry or Brinley.

MEALS: On Saturday we plan to eat as a group around 4pm, location TBA. This will leave time for evening birding.

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

Carpooling is encouraged

RAIN DATE – SUNDAY the 28th is the rain date for the Sat. the 27th, but note that the guided walked occur on both dates.

QUESTIONS RE this outing: e-mail chielenstowner@msn.com, or text 701-214-0496

REGISTER HERE