Calling All Bird Photographers!

OTTAWA COUNTY, MI — Ottawa County Parks & Recreation is inviting all bird photographers, amateur and professional alike, to submit their best bird photos taken in Ottawa County during 2025 for a chance to be featured on the 2026 Coffee with the Birds Mug Club limited-edition mug!

The Grand Prize Winner’s photo will be featured on our collectible mug, available exclusively at the Nature Center at Hemlock Crossing. In addition, four honorable mentions will be recognized and celebrated.

Last year’s contest drew a record-breaking 141 entries, and we’re excited to see what 2025 will bring! See past winners and enter the contest at: news.miottawa.org/mugclubcontest

• Submit up to three original bird photos taken in Ottawa County in 2025 between November 1, 2024 and October 31, 2025
• Upload your images at news.miottawa.org/mugclubcontest 
• Deadline: October 31, 2025 

For just $25, Mug Club members receive: 

• The exclusive 2026 mug featuring the winning photo 
• Access to special birding perks and events throughout the year 
• Entry into door prize drawings at Coffee with the Birds events 
• A chance to support local birding programs! Every membership directly funds birding education and engagement efforts in Ottawa County 

Learn more about the contest, birding events, and how to join the Mug Club at: miottawa.org/birding

Enjoy coffee and baked goodies as you watch and learn about the birds at the feeders with fellow enthusiasts and a knowledgeable naturalist.

Can’t attend in person? Session 1 and the “Birding Tidbits” presentation will be live-streamed on our YouTube channel. You do not need to be a Mug Club member to attend these events!