The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife celebrated the Governor’s Bird Ohio Day at Magee Marsh Wildlife Area today. Guests were treated to up close views of migrating songbirds and banding demonstrations from some of the top bird conservationists in Ohio. Bird banding is when an identification band is placed on a bird’s leg, allowing for researchers to identify individual birds if recaptured.

Ohio’s excellent birding attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year. The influx of birders along Lake Erie’s shores contributes around $40 million to local economies. Throughout Ohio, wildlife viewing generated $1.6 billion in spending in 2022.

“Bird Ohio Day truly highlights Ohio’s unique landscapes, like Lake Erie and the surrounding wildlife areas, that bring wonderful opportunities to Ohioans and visitors alike,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “Magee Marsh Wildlife Area attracts birders from all over the world during this time of year to experience the unique and colorful birds migrating through the state.”

A unique blend of wetlands, lake, and forested beach ridge habitat makes Magee Marsh Wildlife Area a tremendous asset to wildlife. Birding is a top attraction at Magee, one of several hotspots in a region that’s known as The Warbler Capital of the World for its concentration of colorful songbirds in the warbler family. Visitors to Magee Marsh may bird along a variety of trails, including the boardwalk.

“The wetlands, forests, and fields of northwest Ohio are a hotspot for migratory birds,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “Hundreds of bird species may be found here in the spring and summer, both breeding birds and passing migrants. By protecting and restoring important habitats like Magee Marsh, we can keep those bird populations strong.”

In addition to the wildlife area, public lands at Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge, Metzger Marsh Wildlife Area, Maumee Bay State Park, and Howard Marsh Metropark provide endless potential for visiting birders. These hotspots and more are top locations to enjoy migratory and resident birds, including warblers, bald eagles, trumpeter swans, and shorebirds.

“Governor’s Bird Ohio Day is a great way to kick off the Biggest Week in American Birding in collaboration with Black Swamp Bird Observatory,” said ODNR Division of Wildlife Chief Kendra Wecker. “Whether attending the festival or just exploring the fabulous habitats, birders are a key part of conservation in the region. Birders, conservation organizations, and government agencies work together to protect and improve habitats and wildlife recreation for current and future generations to enjoy.”

Discover additional birding locales via the recently revised Lake Erie Birding Trail Guidebook, a collaboration between the Division of Wildlife and Ohio Sea Grant. The guidebook is now available online and print copies may be purchased at birding events throughout the year, including the Biggest Week in American Birding.

Wildlife enthusiasts can support bird conservation by purchasing an Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp. All of the stamp’s proceeds go to wildlife conservation, with most benefitting species of greatest conservation need through the Wildlife Diversity Fund. This fund supports habitat restoration, wildlife and habitat research projects, free wildlife educational materials, and efforts to restore and conserve endangered and threatened species. Additionally, $1 from every stamp sold goes to the Southern Wings program, which protects the overwintering habitats of Neotropical migratory birds. The legacy stamp may be purchased online through Ohio's Wildlife Licensing System, at any location that sells hunting and fishing licenses, and at the Magee Marsh Visitor Center.

The Magee Marsh Visitor Center will welcome guests daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the Biggest Week in American Birding, which runs from Friday, May 9 to Sunday, May 18 in northwest Ohio. Division of Wildlife staff will be available to answer questions and provide information. The Magee Marsh Visitor Center allows guests to learn about the region’s conservation history, waterfowl hunting, bird migration, and much more through interactive displays and exhibits. The visitor center also has accessible bathrooms, a wildlife-viewing walkway around the building, and a gift shop operated by the Friends of Magee Marsh. The center is located at 13229 W. State Route 2, Oak Harbor, OH 43449.

The mission of the Division of Wildlife is to conserve and improve fish and wildlife resources and their habitats for sustainable use and appreciation by all. Visit wildohio.gov to find out more.?

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.?