Independence Lake County Park

Michigan · Midwest

Habitat
LakeUrban Park
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Independence Lake County Park is a productive birding destination in Michigan, with 207 species recorded on eBird. This lake and urban park habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Mourning Dove 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

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Sphyrapicus varius

3/6/20262955 Lakehurst Ct, Ann Arbor US-MI 42.31519, -83.713211 observed

Double-crested Cormorant

Nannopterum auritum

3/6/2026Kensington Metropark--general (Oakland Co. only)2 observed

Northern Mockingbird

Mimus polyglottos

3/6/2026392 Welch Rd, Northville US-MI 42.44415, -83.479702 observed

Ross's Goose

Anser rossii

3/5/20262686–2998 N Latson Rd, Howell US-MI (42.6416,-83.8755)1 observed

Lesser Black-backed Gull

Larus fuscus

3/5/2026North Bay Park/Ford Lake Boardwalk1 observed

Greater White-fronted Goose

Anser albifrons

3/3/2026Gallup Park1 observed

Fox Sparrow

Passerella iliaca

3/3/2026Kensington Metropark--general (Oakland Co. only)1 observed

Trumpeter Swan

Cygnus buccinator

3/2/2026Phoenix Lake2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

82/28/2026

Mallard

42/28/2026

Mourning Dove

12/28/2026

Sandhill Crane

22/28/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

12/28/2026

American Robin

82/28/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

202/28/2026

Northern Cardinal

12/28/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  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 Independence Lake County Park for birding?
The best months to visit Independence Lake County Park for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Independence Lake County Park?
Notable species at Independence Lake County Park include Canada Goose, Mallard, Mourning Dove, Sandhill Crane, Pileated Woodpecker. The area supports lake, urban park habitats.
How difficult is birding at Independence Lake County Park?
Birding at Independence Lake County Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Independence Lake County Park?
Independence Lake County Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails.