Bird photography competition opens to public
The 2024 Mug Club Photo Contest winning photo was an American Avocet by Ryan Bebej.
Ottawa County Parks & Recreation is inviting bird photographers of all skill levels to submit their best shots for the annual Coffee with the Birds Mug Club contest. The grand prize-winning photo will be featured on the limited-edition 2026 Mug Club collectible mug.
To enter, photos must have been taken between November 1, 2024, and October 31, 2025, and must feature birds photographed within Ottawa County during 2025. Each photographer may submit up to three original photos. The entry deadline is October 31, 2025.
The winning photo will be printed on the exclusive mug, available only at the Nature Center at Hemlock Crossing. Four honorable mentions will also be recognized. Last year’s contest received a record-breaking 141 entries.
The 2026 Mug Reveal & Season Kickoff Event will take place on Tuesday, November 25, from 7 to 9 p.m. at Hemlock Crossing County Park.
Learn more about the contest, birding events, and how to join the Mug Club at miottawa.org/birding. Submit your photos at news.miottawa.org/mugclubcontest.
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