Birds

Common Yellowthroat. Photo: Randy Streufert/Audubon Photography Awards

Like birds but not sure how to get started with birding? Check out our resources and information about local birds, creating bird-friendly spaces, and how to begin birding. Whether in your backyard, a local park,  or a forest preserve there are lots of nearby opportunities for bird enthusiasts.

Birding at the Beginning

Birding Resources for Beginners
Birding Basics

Birding for Beginners

Love birds? Discover birding with this page of resources to get you started.

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Where To Bird
Birding

Where To Bird

Discover the best places to go birding.

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Migratory Stopover Habitat
Migratory Stopover Habitat

Migratory Stopover Habitat

A key component of the Great Lakes initiative is the improvement of stopover habitat for migratory birds.

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Some species of concern, such as Golden-winged Warbler (pictured), are more likely than other to die from window collisions. Photo: Arni Stinnissen/Audubon Photography Awards

Stories to Inspire Birders

In Michigan, a Grassroots Effort to Save the Vanishing Black Tern
Great Lakes

In Michigan, a Grassroots Effort to Save the Vanishing Black Tern

To rescue the graceful marsh bird, researchers first have to solve the mystery of its dramatic decline.

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The Freedom to Bird
Birds

The Freedom to Bird

For ornithologist Drew Lanham, it started with the (in)ability to fly.

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How to Boost Your Mindfulness and Empathy While Birding
The Nest

How to Boost Your Mindfulness and Empathy While Birding

Turning your focus to nature and wildlife can help allay stress and anxiety. But always make others feel at ease, too.

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Birds In the Great Lakes Region

Bobolink

Latin:  Dolichonyx oryzivorus

Illustration for Bobolink

Golden-winged Warbler

Latin:  Vermivora chrysoptera

Illustration for Golden-winged Warbler

Black Tern

Latin:  Chlidonias niger

Illustration for Black Tern

Downy Woodpecker

Latin:  Dryobates pubescens

Illustration for Downy Woodpecker

Great Blue Heron

Latin:  Ardea herodias

Illustration for Great Blue Heron

Wood Thrush

Latin:  Hylocichla mustelina

Illustration for Wood Thrush

Eastern Bluebird

Latin:  Sialia sialis

Illustration for Eastern Bluebird

Barn Swallow

Latin:  Hirundo rustica

Illustration for Barn Swallow

Ways You Can Help