Winter brings a fascinating cast of characters to Michigan’s waterways—ducks. As colder temperatures and icy winds freeze Arctic and boreal waters, an array of waterfowl (over 30 species) migrate south to find their winter haven in Michigan.
Here are just a few reasons to love these winter ducks:
- They are beautiful. From the elegant northern pintail, with its dapper three-piece-suit plumage, to the playful surf scoter, which sports a striking orange bill, many winter ducks catch the eye of bird-watchers.
- They have unique adaptations and behaviors, which are a delight to watch. Surf scoters can dive deep for food amid cresting waves, while the common goldeneye occasionally shows off its quirky mating displays in the winter.
- They gather in awe-inspiring congregations. Up to tens of thousands of waterfowl can be seen on Great Lakes open waters! One species, the ruddy duck can often be found in large flocks, rarely mixing with other ducks, as they strut a punky tail and vibrant blue beak.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or brand new to the hobby, winter is the perfect time to explore Michigan’s waterways. Grab your binoculars and see how many of these fascinating species you can spot.
Learn more about the different winter waterfowl you can expect across Michigan. Read Audubon Great Lakes’ “Weird and Wonderful Winter Waterfowl” and “It’s Time for Weird Ducks” and watch the “Winter Waterfowl ID” webinar, presented by MI Birds in partnership with Ducks Unlimited, the River Raisin Institute and the Detroit Bird Alliance.
Winged Wednesday is back in 2025
With every new season, there’s something to see in the birding world. In 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the DNR introduced Winged Wednesday text updates on birds being spotted in state parks across Michigan. The Winged Wednesday weekly messages are starting up again in February, so make sure you’re registered to receive these updates.
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According to All About Birds, more than one-third of the nation’s population age 16 and older in 2022 closely observed, fed or photographed birds, visited public parks to view birds, or maintained plantings and natural areas around the home for the benefit of birds. That’s some big birding business!
Visit the DNR’s birding webpage to learn more about Winged Wednesday, birding trails, season-specific guidance and other information that can help birders of all experience levels make a more meaningful connection to this rewarding outdoor pursuit.
