Bird Migration Days Begin at Tawas Point State Park
Throughout May and into the first week of June, birds are migrating back from the tropics to their homes much farther north. Some birds will travel thousands of miles and make stops along the way.
Many bird watchers are hoping they’ll stop at Tawas Point State Park in East Tawas where they have gathered in hopes to spot any of the 230 species of birds that are expected to come through.
“We get just a big variety, so people come from all over,” said Amy Kohlhepp, event coordinator at AuSable Valley Audubon. “Actually, this location is a premier birding site in the Midwest.”
From the Canvasback to the Kirtland’s Warbler, there are a number of different birds people can find along the scenic trails of Tawas Point State Park during a beautiful weekend.
“I’ve seen people out with a guide finding a bird they’ve been looking for for 40 years, and I thought the guide was going to get hugged,” said Kohlhepp. “I mean, seriously, people get very excited about finding the birds, and it’s just a great recreational way to spend the day.”
Walking the long trails may make bird watchers susceptible to ticks, and there are a lot that you could possibly encounter. Thankfully, staying on the path and using an EPA registered repellent reduces the risk of those potential encounters.
“If we take precautions against ticks, then you can really reduce your chances of contacting a tick, or if you still do find a tick on you, that you have ways to be able to take them off, and to make sure that you try not to get a tick borne disease,” said Associate Wildlife Professor at Michigan State University, Jean Tsao.
Whether you’re an avid birder or you can’t tell a robin from a seagull, the AuSable Valley Audubon wants you to come out, bring friends and family, and have a good time.
“Don’t be intimidated, show up, come out, learn something new, and have fun,” said Carol Cole, a member at the AuSable Valley Audubon.
The bird watching event continues on Saturday, and the AuSable Valley Audubon is hoping to grow the event even bigger next year.
