The Birds of the Great Lakes puzzle by artist Ernest C. Simmons features 94 bird species found in the Great Lakes region. In short, it’s a challenging 550-piece jigsaw puzzle.
About the Artwork
The species include ducks, shorebirds, loons, grebes, swans, geese, gulls and terns. In addition, you’ll find bitterns, herons and egrets.
Each bird is carefully illustrated with its true colors and markings. As a result, it’s a great guide for bird watchers.
With 94 species to build, every bird becomes a small puzzle of its own.
It’s a great companion to our other Great Lakes puzzles, including Fish of the Great Lakes.
Where to Start
Start with the border, then build the largest birds, using their shapes as a guide, since it stands out right away. Next, work on the birds one row at a time. After that, piece together the smaller species and any labels. Finally, fill in the background, sorting those pieces by shade.
Birds of the Great Lakes Puzzle Details
- Pieces: 550
- Finished size: 18″ x 24″
- Artist: Ernest C. Simmons
- Part number: 30521
- Made in the USA by Heritage Puzzle
A Birds of the Great Lakes Puzzle for Bird Watchers
Overall, at 550 pieces, it’s a challenging puzzle for bird lovers. In addition, the many species reward a careful eye.
For example, set it up at the cottage after a morning of bird watching. Also, it’s a fun learning activity for kids.
It also makes a thoughtful gift for bird watchers and Great Lakes fans. Plus, the finished puzzle is suitable for framing, so you can enjoy it long after the last piece is in place.
Framing Your Finished Puzzle
When you finish, the puzzle measures 18″ x 24″, a standard frame size. Then glue it, let it dry flat and frame it for a cottage, sunroom or office.
Explore More
Finally, see more puzzles by Ernest C. Simmons, or browse our Bird Puzzles and Great Lakes Puzzles collections.


Chris Halas –
Fun puzzle! Going to frame it and hangs it in our house on Lake Erie!