Kirtland's Warbler Festival

Frequently Asked Questions

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Q.	What are my chances of seeing a Kirtland’s warbler if I go on a guided field trip?

Very good depending on weather conditions. The male warblers sing from the top of jack pines and old snags that are usually 20 ft. or less in height which makes them relatively easy to see. And they are not usually bothered by human observers who keep a respectable distance. However, if it’s raining or too windy, the males tend to stay in the understory which makes them more difficult to see.

Q.	Can I go out into the field by myself to see a Kirtland’s warbler?

A.	Yes, but because the Kirtland’s is an endangered species their nesting territories are posted and off limits during spring and most of the summer. You will be restricted to staying on the dirt roads in the jack pine forest.

Q.	Who leads the field trips?

A.	Wildlife biologists from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

Q.	What about transportation on the field trips?

A.	The festival provides transportation. School buses with internal PA systems are used so the biologists can provide a narrative during the ride out to the viewing areas.

Q.	What other birds might I see on the field trip?

A.	Upland sandpiper, vesper sparrow, clay colored sparrow, chipping sparrow, Brewer’s blackbird, brown thrasher, hermit thrush, ovenbird, kestrel, red-tailed hawk, rose-breasted grosbeak, blue jay and (if you are very lucky) spruce grouse.