I'd like to thank Grace Peoples of the Toledo Area Metroparks for guest blogging. In addition to being a nature lover, Grace is a Rental Facility and Event Specialist with the Metroparks. Want to rent the Manor House at Wildwood for your next special event? Grace is your gal. She has been extremely supportive of me during this "Big Year" blog project, for which I am very grateful. Thanks again Grace!
 |
| Scarlet (pictured) and Summer Tanagers have been spotted at Wildwood this Spring. |
Well, it
is officially America's "Biggest Week in Birding", and folks, us
Northwest Ohioans are right in the middle of the action. It's a pretty exciting time at Toledo Area
Metroparks, as we encourage the thousands of visitors that "flock" to
the area, and residents alike, to take advantage of the various parks at their
leisure and enjoy scheduled programs, many of them offered free of charge.
Some of
the special regions within the parks include Swan Creek, a habitat that
provides crucial feeding and resting grounds for migratory birds; Wildwood, an
essential breeding site for ground-nesting birds such as rufous-sided towhees,
field sparrows and American woodcock; and Oak Openings, affectionately known as
"birder's paradise" for it's extensive unique habitats and busy
migration areas. Each park is a special place, allowing birders of all ages and
levels to explore. And when you pair
these wonderful places with naturalists who have a true passion for their work
and a gift for sharing that passion, you end up with some incredible
opportunities for learning and exploration.
Whether you've been birding for years, or this is your first time,
welcome home.
If you're
looking to share your love of birding exploration, consider joining the group
Birders of a Feather, who meet monthly at different parks in the area for a
little avian adventure. A friendly group open to beginners and experienced
birders. For something more species
specific, try the Wonderful Warblers program offered May 15. The indoor study on behaviors and species
promises to enhance outdoor exploration.
For your
pint size birders, the Wee Workshop: Our Feathered Friends on May 21 might be
just right. The Metroparks does a great job of engaging all ages, and takes
pride in educating and exciting the next generation about all things nature.
This program features a nature walk, craft, and story-time, all designed to
cultivate a love of the outdoors.
Need a
little break from the elements? For spectators who want to enjoy nature through
the comfort of indoors, check out the Window on Wildlife at several of the
parks, including Wildwood, Swan Creek, and Oak Openings. The Coffee with the Birds programs (several
dates/parks-typically Fridays), offer a chance to sip some morning [bird
friendly, shade grown] java, and chat with fellow birders while discovering the
morning songbirds. A great tradition
among friends.
To follow
a few of the recent bird sightings and happenings, you can follow the
Metroparks Nature Now blog.
Isn't the
natural world all about discovery? Get
out there and enjoy! We are lucky to
live in an area that wants to help cultivate exploration of our environment.
For
additional program offerings, please visit www.metroparkstoledo.com.
No comments:
Post a Comment