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Spring is a great time to get outside and enjoy Michigan’s wildlife. In this quarterly newsletter, discover ways to get involved and support Michigan’s wildlife and learn about the latest conservation efforts from the Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Division.
 The timberdoodle have arrived – let the sky dance begin! American woodcock, also known as timberdoodle, are a delight to behold during the spring season. The dramatic courtship display is one of the most unique wildlife viewing opportunities in Michigan. Just after dusk on the edge of a grassy area, listen for the “peent” sound followed by a spiraling aerial performance.
Want to go on a guided woodcock walk?
Grab your binoculars and join the DNR and the Ruffed Grouse Society for a guided Woodcock Walk on Thursday, April 24, at 7:30 p.m near West Branch. Attendees should meet at the Lame Duck Foot Access Area GEMS, at the corner of Bowmanville Rd. and Lame Duck Truck Trail (44.098025, -84.236925).
All ages are welcome and encouraged! Attendees should bring binoculars and a flashlight or headlamp. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear. Trails may be muddy and uneven. For more information and to RSVP, contact Bruce Barlow at 989-426-9205, ext. 2267630.
Wildlife Division staff spring into action this season by creating habitat, monitoring wildlife populations and planning for future conservation efforts. Take a look at some of the activities that keep us busy this time of year.
 Upper Peninsula field staff and researchers perform an annual check-up on a female black bear that is part of Michigan's black bear surrogate sow program. These late-winter den checks provide insights on the wild black bear population.
 Northern Lower Peninsula wildlife biologist Bruce Barlow inspects an American woodcock wing as part of the Migratory Bird Parts Collection Survey, hosted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Commonly called the "wingbee," this survey provides insight into hunting harvest trends over time and across locations, which helps wildlife managers set and evaluate hunting seasons.
 Field staff in southeast Michigan apply a prescribed burn over 180 acres near Fish Point State Wildlife Area (Tuscola County) to remove invasive phragmites grass and restore wildlife habitat.
Check out this story map to see how fire leads to new life. ►
 Southwest wildlife technician Fahimeh Baziari hosts a job shadow for conservation students from Kalamazoo Nature Center. Students observed a prescribed burn, saw Karner blue butterfly habitat in the making and visited state game/wildlife areas to talk with land managers.
 Spring migration is in full swing, and Michigan’s wetlands are alive with the sights and sounds of returning birds. From dazzling ducks in breeding plumage to soaring bald eagles and graceful sandhill cranes, these tours offer a front-row seat to one of nature’s greatest spectacles.
Join the DNR and MI Birds for a series of free, guided tours at some of the state’s best birding hotspots or join a webinar from wherever you are!
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Saturday, April 5 – Nayanquing Point State Wildlife Area tour (Pinconning).
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Friday, May 9 - Demystifying Portage Marsh State Wildlife Area webinar.
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Saturday, May 17 – Portage Marsh State Wildlife Area tour (Escanaba).
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ICYMI: Demystifying Pte. Mouillee State Game Area webinar.
Can't make it to a tour? Enjoy the spring migration on your own! Explore Wetland Wonders or Grouse Enhanced Management Sites, or visit Cornell’s BirdCast for a bird migration forecast to help you plan a trip. For recommendations on places to bird watch, check out this MI Birds article. ►
MI Birds is a public outreach and education program created by Audubon Great Lakes and the Michigan DNR. Birders and hunters share similar conservation values but rarely cross paths. MI Birds aims to bridge the divide and increase and deepen Michiganders' engagement in the understanding, care and stewardship of public lands that are important for birds and communities.
 Volunteer stewardship days are one of the best ways to support local wildlife. Spring events are happening statewide – find one near you.
April 5: Brush pile building in Traverse City (Kalkaska County) with MUCC.
April 12: Invasive species removal at Bald Mountain Recreation Area (Oakland County).
April 12: Invasive species removal at Warren Dunes State Park (Berrien County).
April 19: Clinton River clean-up at Yates Park (Oakland County) with MUCC.
April 19: Invasive species removal at Warren Dunes State Park (Berrien County).
Find more events. ►
 Don’t miss the latest "Wildtalk" podcast episode! We’re talking cougar kitten observations, the fascinating bufflehead duck and a new invasive species to be aware of, lesser celandine. Listen now: the Michigan DNR's "Wildtalk" podcast. ►
 Michigan’s moose population is getting a closer look! Researchers are tracking moose in the Upper Peninsula to understand the challenges they face. Using GPS collars, biologists are gathering critical data to support conservation efforts. Learn what this research means for Michigan’s moose and how it could shape future management. Learn more about Michigan's moose population. ►
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