MANISTIQUE — Schoolcraft Conservation District (SCD) is hosting a free, guided, spring migratory bird tour this Saturday, May 21. Meet at Manistique High-Middle School parking lot by 7:30 a.m. until noon. If there is interest a second tour, same time frame, will occur on Sunday, May 22. Participants will car pool to pre-selected sites.

Schoolcraft County Area is a beautiful place to go birding. Reasons for the diversity of bird species within Schoolcraft County is because we have many wetlands, inland lakes and our entire southern county shoreline borders Lake Michigan. You can experience waves, on some mornings, of spring migrants that land after crossing Lake Michigan overnight that are exceptional. Of special note is the area has one of the highest diversities of warblers (family Parulidae) in the country. The males of these species of small mostly insectivorous birds are colorful and enthusiastic singers in the spring. The Kirtland’s warbler, a prized life list bird, breeds almost entirely in Michigan, and occurs here in Jack pine habitats which the USFS manages for that purpose. Communities in Lower Michigan hold birding festivals highlighting Kirtland warbler birding opportunities and contribute significantly to the local tourist economies.

Dress accordingly to ever changing weather conditions. Spring bug season is in full swing. Be prepared to use insect repellent, wear a head net or bug jacket. Registration is not required. For further information you may call Schoolcraft Conservation District at 906-286-2890.