Jan Lewis likes to photograph birds at Reeds Lake. Photo by Howard Meyerson.

By Howard Meyerson

Once spring arrives and northerly bird migrations begin, Jan Lewis will grab her camera and head out to Reeds Lake. With its marshes, boardwalks and tree-lined shores, the East Grand Rapids resident and prize-winning bird photographer finds it is one of the city’s best birdwatching destinations. And she’s not alone.

Birders have observed more than 200 species there, according to eBird, the online observation site launched in 2002 by Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology and National Audubon Society. The website draws birders from across the U.S. who record their sightings and learn what else is being seen. Reed’s Lake is the No.1 Kent County Hotspot and 84 species have been reported there so far this year.

To learn more about birdwatching in the area: when is best,  the most productive sites and what can be seen, check out this story on Experience GR Blog. Read more: Birdwatching Hotspots.