Kirtland's Warbler Census 2025

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Excellent birders are needed to help conduct the Kirtland's Warbler Census for approximately one week in June every other year (odd numbered years). Because volunteers are trained to become census experts, they are asked to commit to a minimum of 3 days for 3 census years. Please do not apply if you cannot meet this commitment.

Good birding, navigation and hiking skills are essential.

If you apply, describe your bird identification skills and your ability to commit to the program under "reason volunteer is a good fit". If you do not provide this information, your application will be declined.

The census will be conducted out of the Mio and Huron Shores Ranger Stations. Dana Meder will coordinate the census for the Mio Ranger District (west), and Eric O’Neil will coordinate the census for the Huron Shores Ranger District (east). On most days, the census will be conducted on both districts. Each morning, a group of Forest Service employees departs from the two Forest Service offices in Mio and Oscoda to carpool to the census areas. We typically meet at 5:30 am at each office.

The census is physically demanding; if you have health concerns, please let us know in advance. The census typically lasts about 4 or 5 hours. Long walks (2 miles +) through thick jack pine are common. Temperatures can range from below freezing in the early morning, to 80 degrees late morning. Wearing layers of clothing will allow you to adjust to changing temperatures. Jack pine pollen can also be very heavy during the census for those who have allergies. I would discourage you from participating in the census if you are not in excellent physical condition or have health concerns.

Census routes are typically run in teams of two people each according to the census protocol; the 2023 protocol is included for your review. If you are inexperienced at conducting the census, you will walk with experienced route leaders for training. We do not make a special effort to see the birds we hear; however, we hope to see a few Kirtland’s warblers.

Binoculars are recommended. We will supply a compass, but if you are considering buying a compass, a compass with a sighting mirror and declination adjustment is best. GPS receivers used with a compass work best if you have one and know how to use it. GPS and compass training sessions can be scheduled for those who have never used these devices on the census, and for those needing a refresher.

Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, hat and sturdy hiking or work boots with ankle support are required. Safety glasses will be provided. Check the weather forecast prior to the census and be prepared for cold weather, rain, and insects. A raincoat, rain pants and light gloves are recommended. A backpack or vest to carry gear can be useful. Water is essential, and snacks can help sustain your energy during the long morning hikes.

The following are not permitted on the census:

• Pets
• Smoking
• Playing audio devices

Campsites may be available at the Mack Lake and Pine River Campgrounds. Please let us know if you would like to camp and the dates you would like to stay at a campground so that we can notify our recreation staff. If you plan to stay in a motel and need lodging information, check the Oscoda County or the City of Oscoda web sites.

Start Date - 2025-06-09

End Date - 2025-06-14