Jackson is Made for Birding

 

Find out what the Current Crane Count is at Haehnle Memorial Sanctuary!

Jackson county is the perfect place for bird watching, all year around. The Jackson area is home to hundreds of native bird species, and migratory patterns mean viewing opportunities are always changing. Jackson’s widely inhabited forests, fields, marshes and lakes make it one plentiful paradise for birding. 

Be sure to download the list of birds in Jackson County to aid you in your bird watching adventures. (Google account required to save progress in digital version)

       

  

   

On Foot

Grab your habitat map and try to spot a group of Sandhill Cranes at the 963-acre Haehnle Memorial Sanctuary, where they gather every autumn to migrate south. Some of the richest wildlife in Jackson resides within the Kate Palmer Sanctuary, containing 50-plus acres of Michigan Audubon Society-protected forest. Enjoy the peace and tranquility of MacCready Reserve’s 6.5 miles of trails over 400 acres of diverse nature. 

By Bike or By Paddle

You don't have to be on foot to check another bird off your list. The Falling Waters Trail lets birdwatchers explore different habitats by way of a lengthy paved bike trail, while our many scenic waterways offer unique birding vantage points by canoe or kayak. Waterloo Recreation Area, the largest park in the lower peninsula, harbors 47 hiking trails for hiking or biking, and is home to an encyclopedia of species within its massive reserve — over 20,000 acres worth!

Birds in All Directions

You’re always on a birdwatching trip in Jackson, whether you know it or not! Even downtown, you’re presented with unique birding opportunities. A pair of peregrine falcons, named Big Red and Chayton, recently decided to make the Jackson County Tower Building their roost of choice. See our falcon cam and keep an eye out for this pair of local celebrities flying overhead.