The days are getting longer, the last traces of winter are melting away, and the first buds are appearing on the trees—spring is making its way to Michigan! One of the most exciting signs of the season? The return of migratory birds heading north. Here’s what to expect in the coming weeks and how you can prepare your backyard to welcome these beautiful travelers.
Early Spring Arrivals (March – April)
- Red-winged Blackbirds – Their unmistakable calls are one of the first true signs of spring. Look for them in marshes, fields, and even backyard feeders.
- American Robins – While some robins stay year-round, their numbers surge in early spring. Listen for their cheerful morning songs!
- Eastern Bluebirds – These brilliant blue songbirds begin scouting for nesting sites in March, so be sure to have nest boxes ready!
Mid-Spring Migration (Late April – May)
- Ruby-throated Hummingbirds – Michigan’s only hummingbird returns in late April. Put out nectar feeders early to welcome them!
- Yellow-rumped Warblers – One of the first warblers to arrive, these small, energetic birds love suet and mealworms.
- Great Egrets – These elegant wading birds start showing up in marshes and along shorelines.
Peak Migration & Late Spring Arrivals (May – Early June)
- Baltimore Orioles – These stunning orange-and-black birds love oranges and grape jelly—hang feeders in early May to attract them!
- Rose-breasted Grosbeaks – Their striking red, white, and black plumage makes them easy to spot. They enjoy black-oil sunflower seeds at feeders.
- Indigo Buntings – These bright blue beauties arrive in May and are drawn to nyjer and sunflower seeds.
How to Attract Migratory Birds to Your Yard
Want to turn your backyard into a migration rest stop? Here’s how:
- Nectar Feeders – Put out hummingbird and oriole feeders in late April to attract early arrivals.
- Mealworms & Suet – Protein-rich foods support birds like bluebirds, warblers, and woodpeckers.
- Varied Seed Mixes – Offer sunflower seeds, safflower, and nyjer to attract buntings, grosbeaks, and finches.
- Fresh Water Sources – Birdbaths, drippers, and small fountains help keep migrating birds hydrated.
Best Local Birding Spots for Spring Migration
Want to see even more birds in action? Visit these migration hotspots:
📍 Kensington Metropark – A prime spot for warblers, orioles, and waterfowl.
📍 Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge – Great for spotting shorebirds, herons, and raptors.
📍 Stony Creek Metropark – A fantastic place to see indigo buntings, bluebirds, and swallows.
By preparing your yard with food, water, and shelter, you can turn it into a haven for migrating birds—all while enjoying the beauty of their return!
🌸 Spring is here—get ready to welcome the birds back! 🐦
