Thousands Of Adorable Jungle Songbirds Will Be Making Their Way Through Ohio In May
Did you know that Ohio welcomes thousands of tropical forest songbirds every year? Unless you’re a bird-watcher or nature enthusiast, you likely didn’t. Here in the Buckeye State, thousands of rare songbirds migrate to northwest Ohio throughout the month of May each year—adding a little color, whimsy and song to our landscape. It’s a beautiful natural phenomenon that you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for.
Please note: Magee Marsh State Wildlife Area is currently closed due to COVID-19 and large crowds during the spring season, according to the Ohio Division of Wildlife.
With the arrival of May, millions of migratory songbirds from Central and South America will make their way to the Buckeye State.
Ohio’s Lake Erie shoreline is the best place to spot these graceful creatures.
Two of the most popular places in Ohio to observe these tiny, colorful friends are Magee Marsh State Wildlife Area and Kitty Todd Nature Preserve (pictured).
Magee Marsh Wildlife Area (not pictured) is arguably the state's top bird-watching spot—featuring more than 300 species of birds. You can find this peaceful refuge along western Lake Erie, between Toledo and Port Clinton.
Colorful buntings and warblers breed in the wet prairies of northwest Ohio before migrating back in the fall.
Some of these beautiful birds have even been known to nest in southern Ohio, such as the Cerulean Warbler and Northern Parula at The Edge of Appalachia Preserve (pictured).
Pictured is a view along the Joan Jones Portman Trail, which is perfect for a secluded hike and bird-watching.
It won't be long before these beautiful creatures pass through our state, so be on the lookout and plan a secluded hike or two in one of our nature preserves.
April is the Ohio staff writer for Only in Your State. She is an Ohio native with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. With more than 10 years of writing experience and a background in news reporting for Ohio newspapers, she's published pieces in multiple print and online publications. When she's not on deadline or chasing after her toddler, she's hunting for hidden gems in Ohio or getting lost in a good book.
