OAK HARBOR, OH- The Ohio Ornithological Society (OOS) is now accepting signups for guided beginner birding tours during the International Migratory Bird Day weekend, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
The OOS, in cooperation with the ODNR Division of Wildlife, will be conducting guided bird walks May 12 and 13, 2018 at Magee Marsh Wildlife Area. These outings are targeted at novice or new birding enthusiasts and help people who are new to birding get better acquainted with the beauty of birds.
The walks on May 12 will be held at 8:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 2:30 p.m. and the walks on May 13 will be held at 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Walks are limited to 15 participants each and will be filled on first come, first served basis. Interested individuals can register by emailing Julie.davis@ohiobirds.org. Please provide your name, phone number, and requested date and time-slot. Additional information will be provided upon registration.
Birders and outdoor enthusiasts are also reminded the entrance road to Magee Marsh will be closed from June 1 to September 1 for bridge replacements. During this time the wildlife area and the Sportsman’s Migratory Bird Center will not be accessible, however, access to Black Swamp Bird Observatory will not be affected. For updated information about the closure, call 419-898-0960 ext. 42.
In 2011, there were an estimated 3.2 million wildlife watchers in Ohio. Approximately 48,000 out-of-state birders visited Ohio in 2011, with Lake Erie being the most popular destination. These groups spent more than $843 million in Ohio alone on supplies, lodging, gasoline, travel expenses and food. A typical May can see 80,000 visitors from across the country come to Magee Marsh Wildlife Area to witness the spectacle of the spring migration. Magee Marsh Wildlife Area is listed as one of the top 10 bird watching spots in the country.
Birders and others who enjoy nature and want to help fund conservation in Ohio can now purchase the 2018 Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp. This year’s collectible stamp features a gartersnake. The sale of the Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp benefits the Wildlife Diversity Fund, which is used to protect and manage wild animals and their habitats. The stamp may be purchased at wildlife.ohiodnr.gov or any license agent.
OOS is a statewide organization devoted to fostering a deeper appreciation of birds, fellowship and collaboration in advancing our collective knowledge, and ability to speak with one voice to preserve Ohio’s bird habitats.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
