Bay City State Park

Michigan · Midwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Bay City State Park is a productive birding destination in Michigan, with 257 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and American Herring Gull among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Green-winged Teal

Anas crecca

3/4/2026Whiting Overlook Park1 observed

Gadwall

Mareca strepera

3/4/2026Whiting Overlook Park2 observed

Ross's Goose

Anser rossii

3/4/2026Whiting Overlook Park2 observed

Horned Grebe

Podiceps auritus

3/4/2026Whiting Overlook Park1 observed

Cackling Goose

Branta hutchinsii

3/4/2026Whiting Overlook Park1 observed

Greater White-fronted Goose

Anser albifrons

3/4/2026Whiting Overlook Park2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

83/4/2026

Mallard

163/4/2026

American Herring Gull

63/4/2026

Bald Eagle

13/4/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

23/4/2026

Downy Woodpecker

13/4/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

13/4/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

23/4/2026

Tufted Titmouse

13/4/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

23/4/2026

American Robin

13/4/2026

House Sparrow

123/4/2026

House Finch

23/4/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

23/4/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

163/4/2026

Common Grackle

13/4/2026

Northern Cardinal

43/4/2026

Mourning Dove

23/2/2026

Blue Jay

13/2/2026

American Crow

23/2/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  3. 3

    Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Bay City State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Bay City State Park for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Bay City State Park?
Notable species at Bay City State Park include Canada Goose, Mallard, American Herring Gull, Bald Eagle, Red-bellied Woodpecker. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Bay City State Park?
Birding at Bay City State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Bay City State Park?
Bay City State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.