Michigan DNR offering guided birding tours this spring

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is inviting wildlife lovers to guided birding tours this spring. These tours will take place at various wetlands across the state as birds return to the area. Wildlife biologists and volunteers from local Audubon chapters will lead the tours. Participants will have the chance to see many bird species, including swans, ducks, eagles, and cranes. The tours are scheduled on several Saturdays. The first tour will be on March 22 at the Shiawassee River State Game Area in St. Charles. The following tours will be on March 29 at Fish Point State Wildlife Area, April 5 at Nayanquing Point State Wildlife Area, and May 17 at Portage Marsh State Wildlife Area. Participants will meet at specific locations before exploring the best bird observation spots. The Portage Marsh tour will require walking, while other tours will allow visitors to drive through the wetlands. The DNR advises attendees to dress for the weather, wear boots for muddy areas, and bring binoculars or spotting scopes for better viewing.