In the midst of uncertain times and a public health crisis, it's comforting to know that Mother Nature still runs its course—and in some cases, it thrives. Recent data released from the Ohio Division of Wildlife shows that the bald eagle is officially making a comeback in Ohio. If you've ever taken the time to birdwatch and photograph these gorgeous birds, you know just how special this natural phenomenon is.
Both a symbol of national pride and a majestic creature that's always beautiful to see, the bald eagle is making its way back to the Buckeye State—and we're more than happy.
Although this awe-inspiring bird of prey is no longer considered to be an endangered species, it's still considered a threatened species and it's not common to spot one in Ohio.
advertisement
According to a recent Facebook post from the Ohio Division of Wildlife, 707 bald eagle nests were reported and confirmed in the state of Ohio from February - March in 2020.
To put it in perspective: That's an increase of 151% from the 2012 census, when 281 nests were recorded in Ohio, according to the Facebook post.
Nest locations were verified in 85 of Ohio's 88 counties. The five counties with the most nests were Ottawa (90), Sandusky (50), Erie (32), Trumbull (26) and Seneca (24).
One of the most popular places to spot these majestic birds is Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, which is temporarily closed due to social distancing guidelines and COVID-19 concerns.
Magee Marsh Wildlife Area 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.
Regardless of how long it takes the Buckeye State to conquer the current public health crisis, take heart in the fact that the regal bald eagle soars over our state once again.
Have you ever watched a Disney princess movie and wished you could interact with wild animals so effortlessly? Well, if you live near Cleveland, Ohio, I've got some great news for you. Down in Mansfield, the Ohio Bird Sanctuary is open to visitors, and it's the best way to get up close and personal with beautiful native species. Taking a road trip out here is a treat like no other, and you can even book a bed and breakfast in the area if you're looking to extend your visit. Surrounded by nature and removed from the hustle and bustle of city life, this section of Northeast Ohio is a true treat to visit.
advertisement
Out in Mansfield hides a secret spot that's so worth a road trip.
This fascinating boardwalk is part of the Ohio Bird Sanctuary, a little-known destination in Northeast Ohio that's home to a very special mission. Since 1988, this nonprofit has helped rehabilitate injured and orphaned birds, and they serve an important educational purpose in society to this day.
Led by a team of passionate staff and volunteers, interacting with the Ohio Bird Sanctuary is one of the best ways to learn about native wildlife.
The sanctuary provides a number of educational services to Northeast Ohio, including on-site programs that allow you to see fascinating species up close. With the guidance of one of these experts, you'll get closer than ever before to majestic birds of prey.
advertisement
Of course, I also think there's a lot of educational value in going off and exploring the sanctuary's trails yourself.
This incredible facility is open to the public, and your entrance fee ($5 for adults, $3 for children, or $3 for military and individuals from assisted care centers) helps support their mission. On their trails, you'll see over 30 different species going about their business in the living museum.
Animals that are permanent residents at the sanctuary can no longer survive in the wild, so they're now educational ambassadors.
Some injuries, unfortunately, make these birds ill-suited to return to the wild. They've got a good gig at the sanctuary, though! They're absolutely pampered, and they're gorgeous to admire.
advertisement
The rehabbed birds, of course, are returned to the wild when they're ready.
This is a working facility, of course, but you likely won't see these recovering critters. For their health and safety, they're housed away from the public. Ask about them during your visit, though... the staff loves to share their mission, and you'll find yourself in the visitor's center anyway.
While the mission of the Ohio Bird Sanctuary is critical, most people come for an opportunity to get up close and personal with songbirds.
The songbird aviary is the biggest draw for visitors, as you're able to walk through a 40-by-80-foot birdcage where friendly birds live and thrive. You'll be amazed by how close they get to you!
advertisement
For a single quarter, you can get a container of food to share with friendly species like blue jays and doves.
The special food is available for purchase inside the visitor's center. As they do have a special diet, no outside food is permitted. They probably wouldn't want it anyway... the food provided by the sanctuary is so delicious that these birds will always flock to you for a taste.
There are a few ground rules you'll need to keep in mind during your time in the aviary.
One of the double doors must be closed at all times to ensure that no birds get out. Children should be supervised at all times, and though it's tempting, please do not attempt to pet these animals. Respect that you're in their home, and be sure to avoid running or making loud noises so you don't stress them out.
advertisement
From the walking trails to the live bird displays, you'll love everything that the Ohio Bird Sanctuary offers.
Want to keep this unique Northeast Ohio animal encounter on your radar? Connect with the Ohio Bird Sanctuary on Facebook. They're open year round, and following the page will fill your newsfeed with the coolest seasonal content ever.
You're going to love visiting the Ohio Bird Sanctuary in Mansfield.
You'll find it at 3774 Orweiler Rd, Mansfield, OH 44903.
Visiting the Ohio Bird Sanctuary is such a unique experience, and it's an incredible photo opportunity in each and every season. They serve a critical mission in rehabilitating birds and educating the public, so visiting and supporting their mission is an endeavor you'll feel good about.
If you're looking for more to do in the area, consider adding Malabar Farm State Park to your road trip itinerary. It's about thirty minutes away, but considering that it's an hour and a half from Cleveland, it's worth starting your journey there from Mansfield.
When summer winds down, school starts again, and the temperatures drop ever so slightly, you likely begin to itch for fall. When you're craving some delicious apple cider, where do you go? Here in Ohio, we have several cider mills, apple orchards, and fruit farms that feature delicious, locally-produced apple cider that grocery stores just can't replicate. The following are 11 of our favorite cider mills in Ohio -- and they'll have you longing for fall in Ohio (if you aren't already).
With seasonal fresh fruits and veggies year-round, this fall favorite in Ohio features an apple orchard and cider mill and is ideal for a visit anytime. Stop by this fall for their incredible apple cider to get you in the spirit of the season. You'll find it at 6742 W Calla Rd., Canfield, OH, 44406.
Family-owned since 1936, this picture-perfect apple barn and cider mill in the Buckeye State is fun for the whole family. After you prepay for your U-pick experience, you're given a ticket and bags according to how many apples you want to pick. Apples are priced by the 1/2 bushel. You'll also find in-season produce, baked goods, u-pick apples, and other activities. They're open for the fall from August through October, and you can view specific hours and additional information for this Ohio apple orchard and cider mill via its Facebook page. MacQueen's Apple Barn and Cider Mill is located at 7605 Garden Rd., Holland, OH, 43528.
This seasonally operating Ohio cider mill is impossibly charming and offers delicious caramel apples, cider donuts, apples, cider, and more. Dating back to 1916, this family-owned mill has quite the history and is the epitome of good, old-fashioned fall fun. Moes Cider Mill is located at 6587 West River Rd.,
With a wide variety of apples to choose from, pumpkins, mums, and irresistible cider, a trip to Beckwith Orchards this fall is a must. It's open during the fall with seasonal hours, so be sure to check the official Facebook page for Beckwith Orchards before you go! You'll find this delightful Ohio apple orchard and cider mill located at 1617 Lake Rockwell Rd., Kent, OH, 44240.
With two store locations in Chillicothe, you'll find some of the most delicious produce and apple cider in Ohio from this fourth-generation family farm. You can also pick your own apples at 12846 State Route 772, Chillicothe, OH, 45601.
Be sure to get some of the beloved cider from this fourth-generation family orchard before it's gone. Laurelville Fruit Farm also features delicious apples, jellies, local honey, and apple cider vinegar that folks rave about. This charming apple farm in Ohio is located at 16181 Pike St., Laurelville, OH, 43135.
Pictured above are just a few of the goodies you'll find at Legend Hills in the fall. This charming farm is open year-round, so be sure to call ahead before you visit as hours of operation vary. It's located at 11155 Reynolds Rd., Utica, OH 43080.
In addition to picking your own apples *and* pumpkins at this adorable farm just outside Cleveland, you'll also find apple cider, jams, honey, maple syrup, treats, baked goods, and so much more. Pick N' Save Orchard is located at 1222 Ledge Rd., Medina, OH, 44256.
You simply have to try the award-winning apple cider at Lynd's Fruit Farm. You can also pick your own apples every weekend in September and October. (We also recommend taking home a jar of their pumpkin butter -- and enjoying their epic corn maze while you're there!) Lynd's definitely is one of the best apple cider farms near me. You'll find it at 9090 Morse Rd. SW, Pataskala, OH, 43062.
With hours that vary each month, you can get the most delicious apples and cider at this delightful fall destination in Ohio. Hours vary depending on the day of the week and month/season, so be sure to call ahead for updated hours of operation. Geig's Orchard is located at 8468 Wooster Pike, Seville, OH, 44273.
When you are looking for a fun day trip in Ohio, this family-owned orchard in Fairfield County produces some of the best apple cider, pears, and apples you'll ever have. You'll find this charming Ohio cider mill located on Old Rushville Rd. NE, just off St. Rt. 664 in Rushville.
advertisement
Have you been to any of these fruit farms or cider mills in Ohio? Where's your favorite place to get apple cider near you in Ohio? Share your thoughts and experiences with us!
When fall rolls around in Ohio it's time to take advantage of the cooler weather for a fun fall getaway. Pick up an RV near you from RVShare and set out on a fun adventure. Here are some of our favorite places to go:
