Kirtland’s Warbler to be Featured on 2022 Wildlife Habitat License Plate

lschultz • December 9, 2021

According to a December 6, 2021, press release from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the Kirtland’s warbler will be the next wildlife species celebrated on the wildlife habitat license plate offered by the State of Michigan. Read the full press release HERE .

A sample of the 2022 wildlife habitat conservation specialty license plate that will be available for purchase starting in January of 2022. Photo credit: Michigan DNR

Starting in January of 2022, those interested can purchase an updated plate featuring the Kirtland’s warbler for $35. As with all wildlife habitat license plates, $25 of the purchase is deposited in the Nongame Fish and Wildlife Trust Fund.

This fund was created in 1983 to support the health and sustainability of all nongame species in Michigan (especially those listed as threatened and endangered) and associated habitats and educational efforts. This fund has played a key role in successful conservation efforts that have helped once-declining wildlife species such as peregrine falcons, trumpeter swans, and lake sturgeon recover and even thrive in Michigan.

The Kirtland’s warbler is a fitting addition to the DNR’s wildlife habitat license plate after its successful recovery and recent removal from the Endangered Species List. This species has benefited greatly from funds generated from the Nongame Fish and Wildlife Trust Fund and highlights the power of partnership in conservation efforts. As a species that nests only in young jack pine forests located in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Ontario, much of their natural habitat was lost as fires were repressed and residential development occurred. The Michigan DNR, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest Service, and countless other partners have played a leading role in the successful recovery of the Kirtland’s warbler through dedicated habitat management efforts within their core breeding area and beyond.

In a December 6, 2021, DNR press release, DNR Wildlife Division Chief Jared Duquette commented on the iconic songbird being featured on the specialty license plate in 2022. “The successful recovery of the Kirtland’s warbler is reason to celebrate,” said Duquette, “We hope highlighting the Kirtland’s warbler will encourage continued funding for conservation efforts of Michigan’s threatened and endangered species.”

Recent Posts

June 2025 NRC Recap

By Justin Tomei • June 12, 2025
The Natural Resources Commission met today in Bay City. There were no orders for information or action on the agenda. The big news was the commission brought back up the order to reinstate the year-round coyote season, and a vote will happen in August to satisfy posting and notice requirements. MUCC created the Coyote Coalition to put pressure on the NRC, and with today’s inaction, we know that it’s working. With the continued support of the coalition, we will continue fighting to protect proposal G. Consider joining the Coyote Coalition , and let the commission know that inaction is not acceptable, and to follow their legal charge and responsibility. Chair Becky Humphries announced new committee memberships. Wildlife Committee will be chaired by Commissioner John Walters, Governance, Finance and Policy will be chaired by Chair Humphries, Fisheries will be chaired by Commissioner Dave Anthony. There were no other orders for information or action. The next meeting returns to Lansing on July 10.

Conservation Cohort: Training Young Conservationists

By Olivia Triltsch • June 12, 2025
Last week on June 3rd and June 4th, Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) hosted a two-day training for young professionals.

PlayCleanGo Awareness Week: Taking Action on Invasive Species

By Katelyn Helsel • June 11, 2025
This week marks the annual PlayCleanGo Awareness Week , taking place from June 7-14. Hosted by the North American Invasive Species Management Association (NAISMA), this week encourages outdoor enthusiasts to help stop the spread of invasive species through simple actions. This year’s theme, “Partnering Together to Protect Our Favorite Places”, focuses on the importance of collaboration with Invasives Canada and CONABIO to illustrate how actions can create meaningful change across North America.
More Posts