The Atlas of Breeding Birds of Michigan

Brewer, Richard; Mcpeek, Gail; Adams, Raymond

For 6 seasons from 1983-1988 about 1,000 observers combed the state of Michigan in 9 mi.2 sections (quarter section of a legal township) and recorded the presence of breeding birds. Most observations occured in 3-5 hr periods in the morning (6-10 hr. blocks spread over 2 visits that were a week or more apart). During the last 4 yrs of the survey, skilled birders supplemented the many volunteers. 215 species of breeding birds are discussed separately. Worldwide distribution is given for each bird species, along with information on the birds' habitat (nest location), seasonal occurrence (migration and breeding periods), and historical trends in population and distribution. Distribution maps illustrate locations throughout the state of Michigan where confirmed, possible and probable breeding activity exists for each species. Confirmed observations were those in which nest-building, eggs, or fledglings were observed. Possible observations were those in which a male vocalization was heard in habitat or birds were sighted in breeding habitat. Probable observations were those in which 7 or more males were heard vocalizing or a pair was observed in suitable nesting habitat, where courtship or copulation was observed, where anxiety calls were heard from adult birds, or where territorial behavior was observed. Data is supplied on the number of townships in which there was evidence of breeding. An overview of landforms, geology, soils, climate, and vegetation types throughout the state is also included. Records for Isle Royale National Park, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, MI can be inferred from the distribution maps.

The Atlas of Breeding Birds of Michigan

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