Michigan’s fall bird migration is entering its peak period, with millions of them traveling through the state under cover of darkness.

Tonight, more than 14 million birds are expected to fly over Michigan as they head south for the winter, and there’s a simple way you can help them along: turn off unnecessary outdoor lights before bed.

Today, we’re taking a closer look at Michigan’s fall bird migration.

Plus: Ever been hit by a weird smell while you’re outside? I’ll share an app that helps get to the bottom of the source.

20K names purged from Michigan sex offender registry (CBS News): Michigan has removed more than 20,000 people from its sex offender registry after a state Supreme Court ruling found that registration requirements under the 2011 law cannot be applied retroactively to crimes committed before July 1, 2011. The removals represent nearly half of the roughly 43,000 people who were registered or required to register, though the number could change as the state continues reviewing records.

Whitmer travels to South Korea for business mission (WEMU): Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is in South Korea meeting with business leaders as part of an investment mission. The trip is aimed at attracting Korean investment to Michigan in industries including advanced manufacturing and mobility, as well as strengthening ties with companies already operating in the state.

Turkey and small game hunting season begins (WXYZ): Fall turkey and small game hunting season opens Tuesday across Michigan. Turkey hunters must report their harvest within 72 hours. The turkey hunting season runs through Nov. 14.

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A family of Canada geese and their goslings gliding through the salt marshes. (USA Today Network)

By USA Today Network via Reuters Connect

About 14.2 million birds are predicted to fly over Michigan Tuesday night, according to Purdue University’s AeroEco Lab. The birds are headed to their winter destinations in warmer southern climates.

The BirdCast Migration Dashboard, a live migration map provided by Cornell University’s Lab of Ornithology, says Michigan’s fall migration is reaching its peak time frame — from mid-September to mid-October.

The Birdcast system uses radar because most species migrate at night, some at altitudes as high as 15,000 feet, and aren’t visible to the naked eye.

Officials urge people to turn off unnecessary lights at night because they can interfere with birds’ ability to navigate and rest.

Random tidbits worth clicking on…

What’s That Smell maps out potential stinky spots near you. (whatsthatsmell.app/Screenshot)

👃 Ever smelled something weird while you’re out and about? The What’s That Smell app tries to add context to what you’re smelling by mapping refineries, feedlots, EPA Superfund and brownfield sites, and more nearby. Check it out here.

💖 Closing out with a feel-good story of a flight attendant going viral for saving a falling baby on a Grand Rapids-bound flight. The attendant proceeded to hold the baby for a bit while the mom caught some much-needed shut-eye.

Want deeper coverage of Michigan politics? Our free Thursday newsletter, This Week in Michigan Politics, breaks down what’s happening in Lansing and Washington—clearly and without the jargon.

With the midterms approaching, we’ll keep you informed on what could affect your day-to-day life.

Interested?

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Karel Vega with a feature story from USA Today Network via Reuters Connect. It was edited by Crystal Niforos.

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