Research

Research at Michigan Audubon focuses on understanding population and migratory dynamics for bird communities. Long-term counts at Whitefish Point Bird Observatory is uncovering long-term patterns in Great Lakes waterbird populations. We also use passive acoustic monitoring to understand migratory patterns through space and time as well as the effects our restoration efforts at the sanctuaries have on breeding bird communities.

Whitefish Point Bird Observatory

Located 11 miles north of Paradise, Whitefish Point Bird Observatory (WPBO) is the premier migration hotspot in Michigan. Jutting out in Lake Superior, Whitefish Point acts as a natural migration corridor, bringing thousands of birds through this flyway every spring and fall. With its wooded dune and swale complex, distinctive to the Great Lakes region, the Point witnesses a huge diversity of migrants. Home to numerous rare breeding birds, this Globally Important Bird Area has recorded over 340 bird species.

Research conducted by our Michigan Audubon staff at WPBO significantly contributes to an ongoing effort to increase knowledge of bird migration, encourage public awareness of birds and the environment, and further critical bird conservation. WPBO maintains annual counts for waterbirds (spring and fall) and raptors (spring) and monitors the endangered Piping Plovers that nest along the shore.

You can follow along with the research programs through weekly posts by field staff.

WPBO Field Notes Blog — Read highlights from the Piping Plover Monitor and Field Ornithologist.
WPBO Migration Counts Blog — Read highlights from the Raptor and Waterbird Counters.

WPBO – A Globally Important Bird Area for Migration