ÌÇÐÄlogo

Near the Detroit metropolitan area lie the Detroit River and St. Clair Flats, one of the world’s largest freshwater deltas. These locations include wetlands that provide vital habitat for bird species such as the American Bittern, Black Tern, and Marsh Wren—but decades of urbanization and industrialization have destroyed up to 92 percent of Detroit's wetlands, endangering the region’s bird populations. Recognizing its ecological importance, ÌÇÐÄlogo scientists have identified this area as one of the 12 most critical coastal wetland regions in the Great Lakes for bird conservation. 

To combat habitat loss and species decline, ÌÇÐÄlogo and its partners are restoring these ecosystems, removing invasive plants, and studying bird populations. Staff and volunteers (including from our local chapter, the Detroit Bird Alliance) lead surveys to track breeding birds and overall marsh health, helping to measure the success of current projects and guide future efforts. 

One major focus of the project is the St. Clair Flats State Wildlife Area, which hosts Michigan’s largest Black Tern colony. The Black Tern population here has sharply declined due to habitat degradation, climate impacts, and invasive species. Through detailed field research, radio tracking, and habitat restoration, ÌÇÐÄlogo is working to reverse these declines and secure the long-term survival of Black Terns and other wetland-dependent birds, with support from regional and national partners and funding organizations. 

Partners in this region include Michigan DNR, Detroit Bird Alliance, and the Upper Mississippi Great Lakes Joint Venture (UMGLJV). ÌÇÐÄlogo’s work in the region is supported by the MI DNR Wildlife Habitat Grant Program, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Upper Mississippi Great Lakes Joint Venture (UMGLJV).