May 10, 2026: The Migrating Birds of Kleinstuck

On Sunday, May 10, Seth led a hike at Kleinstuck Preserve, a local hotspot for birding. Those in attendance had the unique opportunity for an intimate hike with an experienced birder during peak migration. This smaller group size contributed both to the success of the hike (less disturbance = more birds and wildlife to witness) and to the hikers, allowing for a more personalized experience.

As usual, chai was served to those in attendance. We shared stories of recent wildlife encounters while sipping, and took some time to familiarize ourselves with some of the many warblers that frequent Kleinstuck this time of year. With warblers in tow (Seth brought various warblers on loan from the Kalamazoo Nature Center) we examined one by one. Those in attendance were the Black and White Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, and more!

After a discussion about warblers and other migrating birds, it was discovered that directly overhead, perched in a tree about 30 feet up, was a Cooper’s Hawk listening in on our conversation! This was one of many great views that our morning hike would afford us!

Cooper’s Hawk in Kleinstuck Preserve. March 30, 2022.

We took to the trails of Kleinstuck. The pace was slow, unhurried, and intentional. We stood stationary along the trail at many points to listen to our surroundings. I find that the practice of remaining stationary helps beginning birders locate birds based on the direction of their sounds. Similar to learning a new language, developing this skill takes time, and we were able to practice this skill with a very special bird.

At one point, after hearing a male Scarlet Tanager singing nearby, we decided to backtrack to see if we could track him down, noticing that his song was behind us on a segment of the trail we had just been on. These brightly colored birds are often heard rather than seen, but this morning was an exception. There above us, perched on a branch in a sunbeam, completely visible, was the tanager. What a striking bird! Male Scarlet Tanagers are show stoppers, with their blood-red bodies and jet-black wings and tail. A true sign of spring, and an exciting find!

Shortly after our encounter with the tanager, we had yet another special experience. Again we were standing still and quiet, noticing all of the creatures of the forest coming to life; the chipmunks, the squirrels, the deer, when suddenly, a commotion. While we were unsure of what caused the commotion, it was significant enough that a Barred Owl left their perch and flew to a nearby tree!

Barred Owl in Kleinstuck Preserve. March 28, 2022.

In awe and wonder, we continued hiking, skirting the marsh, staying grounded, and identifying other species along the way. An Eastern Kingbird flying low over the marsh. Baltimore Orioles singing from the tops of a Cottonwood tree. A lone Turkey Vulture soaring overhead. A curious Black-capped Chickadee digging cavity in a rotten piece of wood near the ground.

We weaved our way back to the parking lot. While the warblers were fairly quiet, our mindful ambling allowed close encounters with other species. All in all it was a very successful bird hike, with many memorable moments created.

Thank you to all who showed up. To view our full checklist on eBird, click here.