Whitefish Point provides a phenomenal concentration spot for migrant birds. Here, land and water features create a natural migration corridor. Tens of thousands of birds are funneled to the Point every Spring and Fall while migrating through the Great Lakes region. For over 30 years, Whitefish Point Bird Observatory has been monitoring and documenting these annual migrations. Our mission is to document the distribution and abundance of birds in the Great Lakes Region, with special emphasis on migration.

The Mission of the Whitefish Point Bird Observatory is to document the distribution and abundance of birds in the Great Lakes Region, with special emphasis on migration. Research projects focus on assessing the status of bird populations and movements. Information acquired will be used to increase knowledge of bird migration, encourage public awareness of birds and the environment, and further bird conservation.

Whitefish Point provides a phenomenal concentration spot for migrant birds and is a recognized Important Bird Area (IBA). Here, land and water features create a natural migration corridor. Tens of thousands of birds are funneled to the Point every Spring and Fall while migrating through the Great Lakes region. For over 30 years, Whitefish Point Bird Observatory has been monitoring and documenting these annual migrations.

The weather at Whitefish Point is highly variable. Winter-like conditions normally end in early May and begin in mid-October. When winds shift to the north and west, coming off Lake Superior, the Point is decidedly cold, even in August. It is advisable to bring warm clothing during all seasons. In addition, from mid-May through September insects may pose a problem. Visitors should bring insect repellent during these times particularly if birding in the woods. Wind and sun can be a challenge while birding on the beach or dunes. Sunblock and sunglasses are recommended from late spring through early fall.

The key to finding birds at Whitefish Point is to know where and when to look for them. The predominant habitat at Whitefish Point is a dry coniferous forest, dominated by Jack Pine. This habitat does not support many breeding birds, but the Point’s geographic location and shape make it an important migration corridor during the spring and fall. During the months of March through June, and August through November, visitors may encounter impressive numbers of migrants.