Oregon, OH
Everyone knows (some) birds migrate – south in the winter, north in the summer. What’s less well known is how exactly all of them make it from Point A to Point B. There is much research on the topic and ultimately the mechanics aren’t fully understood, but we do know migration is not something birds do at random. Overall, the migration patterns of most bird species reflects an efficient route from southern wintertime habitats to breeding grounds in the north.
This is where Northwest Ohio comes in. Positioned at the southwestern edge of Lake Erie, the geography of the area results in a “crossroads” of major migratory bird flyways, bringing a wide variety of birds to the area for several months each year. Birds migrating north through the great plains as well as the southeastern US*** This avian surplus has resulted in Toledo gaining the title of “Ohio’s Birding Capital.”
Naturally, with the birds come birders – a certain type of individual who seeks to spot birds in the wild. Kaitlin’s parents happen to be two of these individuals. We spent Mother’s Day – coincidentally Day 1 of National Birding Week – The Biggest Week in American Birding – with them at Maumee Bay State Park. We walked the park’s boardwalk through a lakeside marsh, listening to crooning warblers throughout.
Also used the opportunity to test out our camera, get some footage, and work on my editing – Enjoy the result!
