MICHIGAN BIRDING

YOU Can Be a Citizen Scientist!
All across Michigan, Citizen Scientists are taking part in scientific research and monitoring. You don’t have to be an expert to volunteer to join them.

1. MICHIGAN LOONWATCH: Help the Michigan Loon Preservation. Association (MLPA) manage, protect and register these birds. Loon Rangers are Citizen Scientists who monitor loons and their habitat on specific lakes in Michigan. Become a volunteer Loon Ranger. by visiting: www.michiganloons.com

BIRDING ALONG THE DETROIT RIVER:

The Detroit River and surrounding area is a natural flight path for birds as they migrate each year. The birds naturally flock to the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, which provides an important feeding and breeding habitat for them. Detroit River Hawk Watch: count hawks during their migration season to help understand their population trends. Visit the Detroit River International. Wildlife Refuge. Learn more here: www.fws.gov/refuge/detroit_river

BIRDING ACTIVITIES FOR CITIZEN SCIENTISTS:

There are many birding projects looking for volunteers: Audubon Society Christmas Bird Count Be a part of the nation’s longest-running. Citizen Science bird project in which volunteers help count over-wintering birds in the Detroit area from December to January. Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Participate in citizen-led bird science projects, such as eBird, Urban Birds, and Project Feeder Watch, that collect data from thousands of people each year. Participate in these and other citizen science activities by visiting: audubon.org/birds or birds.cornell.edu/

ADDITIONAL BIRDING PROGRAMS FOR CITIZEN SCIENTISTS:

Join in DNR programs to protect and conserve certain species of birds, such as the Peregrine Falcon, which can sometimes be seen diving for prey among the skyscrapers in downtown Detroit.Other Citizen Scientist programs include: 1. Piping Plover Patrol: help protect this endangered species by educating beach or park visitors about avoiding Plover nesting sites. 2. Marsh Bird Monitoring: survey marsh bird use of recently restored wetlands to document the effectiveness of the restoration. – Create a habitat for birds in your backyard. Build a bird house, plant native fruiting shrubs, provide access to water.