Whitefish Point Field Trip
DATE: September 18-20, 2026
TIME: Saturday, September 19th and Sunday, September 20th: 9-11am and 11:30am-12:30pm. Also on the raptor deck conducting a morning flight count from 15 minutes before sunrise until about 8:45am.
ATTENDEES – Members and non-members are welcome to attend.
MEET LOCATION: Saturday the 19th AND Sunday the 20th – Whitefish Point Bird Observatory parking lot at 8:45 am.
We will text the phone number you supply in the registration form with updates (if there is a signal)
LEADER(s): Jeff Towner and 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: Oliver Kew, previously the waterbird counter at Mackinac Straits Raptor Watch, is the the Michigan Audubon WPBO Field Ornithologist this fall will be leading these scheduled bird walks. For LWBA this will be an all-weekend event, join at your convenience, but the guided walks are as described.
Friday the 18th – 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 19th – two meeting times, 15 minutes before bird walks, 8:45 am and 11:15 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.
Sunday the 20th – two bird walk times, same as Saturday. 8:45 am and 11:15 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 or travel home.
Please do not play bird recordings. 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 may want to check-out nearby options include the nearby Paradise Inn, Paradise Lakefront Lodge, and 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.
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
Carpooling is encouraged.
RAIN DATE -SUNDAY the 20th is the rain date for Sat. the 19th, but note that the guided walks occur on both dates.
QUESTIONS RE this outing: email chielenstowner@msn.com, or text 701-214-0496
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