MIO, Mich. — The USDA Forest Service will offer the public an opportunity to see the elusive Kirtland’s warbler on the Huron-Manistee National Forests this spring.
The Kirtland’s warbler is a rare, ground-dwelling songbird that nests almost exclusively in the young jack pine forests of northern Michigan. Once on the brink of extinction, the warbler is proposed for removal from the federal Endangered Species List later this year thanks to conservation efforts by the Forest Service, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, and numerous other partners.
The Forest Service will conduct guided tours of Kirtland’s warbler habitat on the Mio Ranger District daily from May 15 to 31, 2019. The three-hour tours will begin at 7:30 a.m. in the Mio Ranger Station, 107 McKinley Road, Mio, Michigan. Participants are asked to arrive by 7:15 a.m. to complete registration.
Each tour commences with a short video that highlights the natural history of the Kirtland’s warbler and ongoing conservation efforts. After the video concludes, a Forest Service expert will lead participants on a field visit to jack pine stands populated by the warbler. Participants will learn about the natural history and management of jack pine forests.
“Kirtland’s warbler tours are a fun way to experience Michigan’s greatest conservation success story, and people travel to northern Michigan from across the world just to see this special bird,” said Mio District Biologist Kim Piccolo. “The warbler’s recovery demonstrates that strong partnerships and consistent effort can improve our natural resources and our communities.”
Kirtland’s warbler tours cost $10 for adults and are free for children. The fee helps cover administrative costs associated with the tours. Schools and community groups may arrange for free Kirtland’s warbler tours by calling (989) 826-3252 x3334. Groups of four or more are encouraged to make advance reservations by e-mailing miokwtours@fs.fed.us.
Tour participants are encouraged to bring binoculars and comfortable walking shoes. Tape recorders, pets, and smoking are prohibited during the tours.
Additional information about Kirtland’s warbler tours can be found at the Huron-Manistee National Forests’ website
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