Midwest · Mississippi Flyway
Are There Scarlet Tanagers in Michigan?
Yes, but uncommon — Scarlet Tanagers occur in Michigan mainly from May to September. Piranga olivacea · Cardinalidae
Is the Scarlet Tanager Found in Michigan?
Scarlet Tanagers do occur in Michigan, but they are considered uncommon. Encountering one requires patience and the right habitat during the breeding season.
Where to see them instead: the nearest states where Scarlet Tanagers occur regularly are Wisconsin (about 180 miles away), Indiana (about 280 miles away) and Ohio (about 300 miles away).
Often mistaken for Scarlet Tanagers in Michigan: Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak and Indigo Bunting — these occur regularly in Michigan, so compare them carefully before concluding you saw a Scarlet Tanager.
Scarlet Tanager is a North American backyard bird.
In Michigan, this species is classified as uncommon. It visits during the breeding season, typically spring through summer. The best months to observe this bird are May, June, July, September. Peak activity occurs in May, June.
Monthly Activity — Scarlet Tanager in Michigan
Relative frequency of observations by month. Higher bars indicate peak periods for this species.
Identification
Best Time to See Scarlet Tanager in Michigan
Other birds in Michigan
Birds you might also encounter in Michigan.
Scarlet Tanager in other states
Scarlet Tanager in Michigan: Quick Facts
The Scarlet Tanager (Piranga olivacea) is an uncommon bird in Michigan. It is classified as a summer breeder in the state, falling within the Midwest region and the Mississippi Flyway migration corridor.
The best months to spot this species in Michigan are May, June, July, September. For birders in Detroit and throughout Michigan, knowing the seasonal patterns of Scarlet Tanager can help plan birding trips and backyard feeding strategies.
Use the monthly activity chart above to plan your birding outings, and explore other bird species found in Michigan using the related birds section.