MACKINAW CITY — The Mackinac Straits Raptor Watch has announced the start of its 2026 Spring Hawk Count, marking the beginning of the annual spring migration of raptors through the Straits of Mackinac as thousands of birds funnel through the narrow corridor of land and water.
The count will include a site on Mackinac Island made possible by a grant from the Mackinaw Island Community Foundation, with funding supporting daily monitoring from Fort Holmes and expanding long-term research efforts across the Upper Great Lakes region, according to the MSRW.
Mainland hawk and waterbird counts are supported by a grant from the Enbridge Foundation.
Each spring, migrating birds of prey concentrate along shorelines and narrow crossings in the Straits as they avoid crossing large areas of open water, making the region one of the best places in the Midwest to observe spring migration.
Observers record species including golden eagles, red-tailed hawks, broad-winged hawks, bald eagles, sharp-shinned hawks and northern harriers, along with other species.
Data collected contributes to regional and continental conservation efforts and helps scientists track long-term population trends.
The organization is also inviting the public to participate in three specialty weekends in 2026.
Golden Eagle Weekend is scheduled for March 14 and 15, highlighting early spring migration of the species. Red-tailed Hawk Weekend will take place April 11 and 12. Broad-winged Hawk Weekend is set for April 25 and 26 and will focus on observing groups of hawks rising on thermals.
During these weekends, volunteers will assist visitors with species identification, migration patterns and raptor ecology.
The public may visit two spring count sites: Fort Holmes on Mackinac Island and an area behind Mackinaw City High School in Mackinaw City or about one mile west near the entrance to Heritage Village.
Both locations provide viewing opportunities for visitors of all ages and experience levels.
The Mackinac Straits Raptor Watch encourages residents, visitors, photographers and nature enthusiasts to bring binoculars and observe spring migration, noting that conditions such as wind and thermals can significantly affect daily activity.
Updates, count totals and volunteer information are available at www.mackinacraptorwatch.org.
The organization conducts research on migratory birds and wildlife in the Upper Great Lakes region and provides public education focused on stewardship and conservation.