The Biggest Week in American Birding 2018 Visitors' Guide by presspublications

BLACK SWAMP BIRD OBSERVATORY PRESENTS

May 4-13 PROUDLY FEATURING WOMEN IN BIRDING AND CONSERVATION

2018 VISITORSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; GUIDE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO THE BIGGEST WEEK THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS HOW YOU CAN HELP BIRDS SCHEDULE OF EVENTS FUN PLACES TO VISIT IN NORTHWEST OHIO GET TO KNOW BLACK SWAMP BIRD OBSERVATORY

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

Schedule time to forget about your schedule. Ohio’s Lake Erie Shores & Islands is miles away from Monday. Meeting reminders don’t work on island time, just show up whenever. With picturesque nature preserves and wildlife areas, historic lighthouses, and coastal wineries, you’ll totally forget about that thing you have on – what day was that?

Start coasting at SHORESandISLANDS.com

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

Sharing exceptional experiences with thousands since 1993

25 YEA R S

es ! fl f Ra BSBO l l t A fi e Ben CELEBRATE OUR 25th WITH US AT THE BIGGEST WEEK! Visit our booth for all the details... • Enter our “Meet the Guides Selfie Contest” for a chance to win a 2-for-the-price-of-1 trip to Belize! PLUS enter our raffles at Maumee Bay to benefit BSBO

(Visit the Biggest Week registration desk or Wildside booth for details)

• • • • •

Enter our raffle for a 2-for-1 BIG YEAR birding tour value to $2000! Enter our raffle for a 2-for-1 PHOTO WORKSHOP value to $2000! Enter our raffle to win a pair of Zeiss Conquest 8x42 Binoculars Enter our raffle to win a signed print by artist Catherine Hamilton Plus we’re giving away hats, t-shirts and more!

GO PLACES ...SEE STUFF info@WILDSIDENatureTours.com

WILDSIDE’S

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888.875.9453

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

Index

Biggest Week Co-Hosts & Partners 5 How to Use the Visitors’ Guide 6 The group behind the ‘The Biggest Week’ 8 Warblers of the East 9 New to the Area or to Birding? 9 Black Swamp Bird Observatory membership 9 Slow down...see wildlife...save lives 12 ‘Biggest Week’ Frequently Asked Questions 13 Binoculars for Beginning Birders 16 Optics Alley 17 Free Magee Marsh Shuttle Line 18 Birding 101 20 Creating a Bird-Safe Yard 23 Conservation Efforts 25 Women in Birding & Conservation 26-27 Free Activities 29-31 Timing of Spring Migration 34-35 BSBO: Founded on Research 38 Birder’s Marketplace 39 Magee Marsh Bridge Repair Update 39 “The Biggest Week’ Schedule 41-44 Keep Cats Indoors 45 Ohio Young Birders Club 47, 70 Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp 50 ABA Code of Ethics 51 Fun Places to Visit 52-56 Responsible Wind Energy 58-59 Magee Marsh Boardwalk Code of Ethics 60-61 Birds & Business Alliance 64-65 Howard Marsh 69 Bird Tattoo Contest 70 eBird...Tips for reporting bird sightings 72-73 Bald Eagle Nests 76

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1812 Food & Spirits 32 Ala Carte Cafe 48 Arlington Inn 48 Bassett’s Market 77 Bayview Bed & Breakfast & Tea Cottage 57 Bench Farms Market & Greenhouse 28 Birding Ecotours 48 Birds & Beans 37 Blackberry Corner Tavern 62 Caligo Ventures 36 Canopy Family 15 Coffee Emergency 32 Comfort Inn 63 Courtyard Marriott 57 Destination Toledo 21 DG’s Soft Serve & Fast Foods 71 Dining Guide 74-76 Friends of Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge 78 Fulton County Visitors Bureau 79 Gladieux Do-It Best Home Center 22 Granny’s Kitchen 66 Green’s Pharmacy 48 Hawai’i Island Festival of Birds 7 Hayes Presidential Library & Museum 63 Jolly Roger’s Seafood House 28 Kalen Cap Novel 67 Kaufman Field Guides 46 Kowa 10-11 Lake Erie Shores & Islands 2 Lakeside Chautauqua 32 Leica 80 Maumee Bay General Store 66 Maumee Bay Kayak Livery 70 Maumee Bay Lodge & Conference Center 28 Metroparks Toledo 68 Mon Ami Restaurant & Historic Winery 67 Morgan Realty Group 32 Naturalist Journeys 33 Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto 66 Port Clinton Chamber of Commerce 48 Rayz Cafe 66 Rosie’s Bar & Grill 32 Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival 66 Rockjumper 40 Russell Real Estate Services 67 Sandusky County Visitor’s Bureau 63 Sandusky Segwave 62 The Nature Conservancy 49 Time & Optics 19 Toft’s 62 Toledo Museum of Art 24 Toledo Zoo & Aquarium 35 Tony Packo’s Restaurants 57 Vapors 32 Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 62 Wide World Shop 48 Wildside Nature Tours 3 Zeiss 14

2018

A welcome message from your hosts...

Welcome! Black Swamp Bird Observatory welcomes you to the 9th Annual Biggest Week in American Birding, proudly featuring Women in Birding and Conservation. Whether you’re an expert birder, or you’ve never gone birding in your life, we have some fun, exciting, peaceful, and educational opportunities in store for you during this year’s Biggest Week. This Visitors’ Guide is an excellent resource for making your experience memorable, and for helping you to have a safe and sensational experience. Speaking of being safe... This area welcomes birders with open arms. You’ll see “Welcome Birders!” messages gracing marquees, banners on light posts through the main thoroughfares, and birding specials of all kinds. The only complaint we ever receive about birders is in regard to driving. And while I know how tempting it can be, please, I implore you, do NOT stop along the roads to watch birds. It jeopardizes your life and the lives of others. The side roads in the area are narrow and typically flanked by deep drainage ditches. It is never okay to stop along the road to look at birds, and the county sheriffs will be patrolling the area and doing their job to ensure the safety of residents and visitors to the area. Conservation: the heart of the Biggest Week… In addition to information about the festival and the region, this year’s guide also carries several thought-provoking conservation messages. We hope this will help all of our readers understand the impact that our actions have on birds and the natural world, and encourage you to do all that you can to support bird conservation. It’s more than just great birding… If you’re visiting for the first time, you’ll soon discover that, while the birding is indeed world-class, it is the wonderful people who live and work here that make it a truly superb destination. We encourage you to extend your visit—or come back again when the birding isn’t so good that you can’t tear yourself away—and visit some of the other wonderful places this area has to offer. With museums, historic lighthouses, the world-famous Toledo Mud Hens, Cedar Point: the Roller Coaster Capital of the World, waterparks, great fishing, and of course, the charm and charisma of the Lake Erie Islands, northwest Ohio is one of the country’s most alluring travel destinations at any time of year. Wishing you a fabulous birding experience, Kimberly Kaufman Executive Director Black Swamp Bird Observatory

Larry Fletcher Executive Director Lake Erie Shores & Islands

Chad Egan General Manager Maumee Bay Lodge

Carla F. Nowak President & CEO Destination Toledo Convention & Visitors Bureau

Biggest Week in American Birding Visitors’ Guide Published by the Black Swamp Bird Observatory in conjunction with The Press Newspapers & The Beacon. Kimberly Kaufman, Executive Director, BSBO, www.bsbo.org 419-898-4070, 419-898-1363 (fax), kimkaufman@bsbo.org Ken Douthit, Publisher, The Press Newspapers John Schaffner, Publisher, The Beacon Mary Perkins, General Manager, The Press Newspapers Malisha McNabb, General Manager, The Beacon J. Patrick Eaken, Editor, Visitors’ Guide, 419-836-2221, ext. 20 Editors/Graphics...Tammy Walro, Ken Grosjean, D’Arcy Egan Peggy Partin, Mark Shaffner, Katie Siebenaller, Ryan Jacob Sales/Graphics...Lesley Willmeth, Alyce Fielding, Leeanne LaForme, Julie Selvey, Vicky Kletecka, Gina Miller Cover design by Peggy Partin and Katie Siebenaller Bird images donated by Kaufman Field Guides

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

Black Swamp Bird Observatory’s The Biggest Week In American Birding is made possible, in part, by the support of these ne sponsors.

2018

Tour Company Partners

Festival Co-Hosts:

Visitors’ Guide Publication Partners The

Kirtland’s Warbler Level

Major Support provided by:

Since 1972

RESS

Metro • Suburban • Explore

Blackburnian Warbler Level

Cape May Warbler Level

Yellow Warbler Level

Magnolia Warbler Level

Myrtle Warbler Level

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

In Northwest Ohio, the Warbler Capital of the World! HOW TO USE THE BIGGEST WEEK VISITORS’ GUIDE If you have already registered for The Biggest Week In American Birding, this guide offers you the overall festival schedule (centerfold), travel tips, coupons, many conservation messages, and much more. If you’re new to the area, the ‘Fun Places To Visit’ section is something you should check out. In addition to the fabulous birding in this area, we also have an outstanding variety of activities to partake in while you’re here this spring—and when you’re planning your return visit! Take in a Toledo Mud Hens game, visit the Toledo Museum of Art, the Toledo Zoo, Cedar Point Amusement Park, or have your picture taken in front of the Marblehead Lighthouse...the possibilities are endless!

If you have NOT registered for The Biggest Week In American Birding, there’s still time! While there are many free activities during the festival that do not require registration, registration IS required in order to participate in many of the programs, bus and boat trips, workshops, and presentations. Additional benefits of registering include access to free guided birding walks every morning at Magee Marsh from May 4th through May 13th at 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM; evening socials at the Maumee Bay Lodge and Conference Center; and discounts at dozens of local businesses through our Biggest Week Birder Discount Program. You just show up and flash your Biggest Week name badge to cash in on the savings.

Follow Biggest Week on Twitter at:

Find Biggest Week on Facebook at:

https://twitter.com/BiggestWeek

www.facebook.com/TheBiggestWeekInAmericanBirding

Receive Biggest Week Tweets on your phone:  Send Follow BiggestWeek to 40404 as a text

message (standard text message rates apply).

 Or, enable notifications through the Twitter app.

Find Biggest Week on Instagram: @BSBOBIRD Official Festival hashtag: #BWIAB

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

I‘iwi

2 0 1 8 F E S T I VA L T H E M E

BACK FROM THE BRINK: Hawai‘i’s Battle Against Extinction

Guided Field Trips and Nature Excursions Film Festival Bird Fair Lectures Educational Booths Arts & Crafts Workshops

DETAILS AND REGISTRATION COMING SOON AT: BIRDFESTHAWAII.ORG FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK, HAWAII ISLAND FESTIVAL OF BIRDS

2018

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Jeffre © Jack

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

Fo su se ww

Black Swamp Bird Observatory Staff, Volunteers, and Board Members at BSBO’s Annual Volunteer Appreciation Picnic.

Black Swamp BirdBird Observatory Black Swamp Observatory

The group behind the ‘The Biggest Week’

BSBO is a nonprot supported by members & donations

The group behind the ‘The Biggest Week’

Black Swamp Bird Observatory is much more than the organiFor more information on supporting zation behind The Biggest Week In American Birding. their work, please see page 9 of this “Bird Conservation is the core of our mission,” says BSBO execguide, or visit www.bsbo.org. utive director Kimberly Kaufman. “In everything we do – research, is located at the entrance to education and outreach, The Biggest Week – the overarching Black Swamp Birdand Observatory is much more than BSBO Magee Marsh Wildlife Area. They goal is building support for bird conservation.” maintain year-round hours in their theBSBO’s organization behind The Biggest Week In research team has been conducting studies of migragift shop and window on wildlife tory birds in this region for more than 25 years. BSBO operates one where visitors can observe birds American Birding. of the country’s largest songbird banding operations, having bandvisiting the feeders. ed more than 600,000 birds in its history. The data collected by BSBO Board of Directors “Bird isprivate the core of ourand mission.” BSBO’s Conservation research team helps land owners governmentsays John Blodgett, Chair agencies executive manage habitat for birds. The data gathered is also helpful BSBO director Kimberly Kaufman. “In Dr. Randy Kreager, Vice Chair to birders, as it has helped to pinpoint the timing of arrival of many Michelle Klement, Treasurer everything we do –species research, of the most sought-after of birds. education and outreach, Karen Fraker, Secretary BSBO is determined to help connect young people with the marand Biggest Week – the overarching goalhabis Jim Berry vels ofThe migratory birds and the importance of conserving their itat. Their programs forfor schools offered free of charge. These Craig Caldwell building support birdareconservation.” programs bring thousands of students out to the marshes for Annie Crary hands-on, standard-based learning. Students help collect data by BSBO’s research has been studiesJoe ofKomorowski migratory birds in banding wild songbirds team before releasing themconducting back into the wild. Charity Krueger Theseregion programsfor are more a partnership Marsh Wildlife Area this thanwith 25 Magee years. BSBO operates one McEwen of the country’s Barry and Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge. Students visit all three locaThomas Palmer largest songbird having banded more than 600,000 tions during each visit. banding BSBO is alsooperations, the founder of the Ohio Young Ram Ramamurthy Birders Club, a statewide club for young nature enthusiasts aged birds in its history. The data collected by BSBO’s research Robert Ripmateam helps 12-18 that takes students on monthly eld trips across the state. Georgehabitat Sydlowski for birds. In recent years, BSBO has made strides to connect the Lake-manage private land owners and government agencies Margy Trumbull shore communities with the valuable asset that birds and bird The data gathered alsoEcotourism, helpful or tomore birders, as it has helped to pinpoint the habitat represent for this is region. specically BSBO Staff “bird-tourism,” has become a major part of BSBO’s conservation timing of arrival of many of the most sought-after species of birds. Kimberly Kaufman, Executive Director efforts. BSBO’s goal for organizing The Biggest Week In American Mark Shieldcastle, Research Director Birding is to generate support for habitat conservation. While birdBSBO is determined to help connect young people with the Education marvels of Laura Guerard, Director ers are here, BSBO gathers economic impact and travel data. These gures help build support forthe conserving the habitatof these birds deJason Guerard, OutreachTheir Director migratory birds and importance conserving their habitat. pend on for their survival – and that the region has come to depend Ashli Gorbet, Banding Projects Manager programs schools areApril offered free of charge. programs bring on as a sourcefor of revenue. During and May, 2017, more than These Kimberley McRitchie, Store Manager 90,000 birders visited the area and while they were here they spent thousands of students out to the marshes for hands-on, Ryan Jacob,standard-based Staff Naturalist in excess of 40 million dollars at local businesses. Over the enJasmine Cupp, Communications Director tire course ofStudents the festival, visiting birders have traveled from all 50 wild songbirds learning. help collect data by banding before states and 38 countries. And the best part? All this occurs during releasing them back theseason wild.– These are a partnership with what had been considered theinto shoulder one of theprograms slowest times of tourism! opening nearly a full month earli- Wildlife Refuge. Students Magee MarshBusinesses Wildlifeare Area and Ottawa National er, extending their hours, and hiring more staff. visit all three locations visit. BSBO is also the founder of the Working together with visitors’during bureaus, each chambers of commerce, and their business alliance partners, BSBO has built a tourism seaOhio Young Birders Club, a statewide club for young nature enthusiasts son where there hadn’t been much happening before. This makes bird conservation relevant to anstudents ever-increasing andfield al- trips across the state. aged 12-18 that takes on audience monthly lows the BSBO team to speak to more and more people about the value of habitat conservation.

In recent years, BSBO has made strides to connect the Lakeshore communities with the valuable asset that birds and bird habitat represent for this region. Ecotourism, or more specifically “bird-tourism,” has become

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THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

BRAND NEW FOR 2018! From Black Swamp Bird Observatory For the 2018 spring birding season, Black Swamp Bird Observatory is proud to introduce its very first guide to the Warblers of the East!  Compact  Foldable  Waterproof  38

New to the Area or to Birding? Visit Black Swamp Bird Observatory (BSBO) for FREE birding maps of the best places to go birding in this area.

species

 Male

2018

Magnolia Warbler (Kenn Kaufman)

Each map includes information on when to visit and what to expect when you go.

and female

 Size  Song  Arranged

for easy comparison Look for this brand new guide exclusively at the BSBO Gift Store this spring.

BSBO is located at the entrance to Magee Marsh Wildlife Area 13551 West State Route 2 Oak Harbor, Ohio 43449 Open every day in May!

There’s never been a better time to join Black Swamp Bird Observatory! Black Swamp Bird Observatory operates primarily through the generosity of its members and donors. Help us help the birds by joining our team TODAY at www.bsbo.org. Your BSBO membership benefits: 

Our BSBO Newsletter



A 10% discount when you visit the BSBO Gift Shop Special members’ only discounts on BSBO events and activities



Announcing our 2017-2018 Membership Drive! Anyone who purchases or renews a BSBO membership between now and May 12th, 2018, will be entered to win a Swarovski optics prize package valued at over $6,000!

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

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THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

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Black Swamp Bird Observatory and the Ohio Young Birders Club urge you to SLOW DOWN and be alert when driving through our wildlife areas and parks! We know youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re excited about seeing birds, but herps and mammals use the roads too! Take time to appreciate and protect all life in the marshes!

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

The Biggest Week In American Birding

Frequently Asked Questions First-time Birders Edition So, you’ve decided that you’re interested in The Biggest Week and this whole “birding” thing. But where do you go from there? Beginning anything new can be a bit overwhelming, especially when it’s participating in the largest birding festival in the United States! Black Swamp Bird Observatory wants to assure you that it’s not as intimidating as it seems. With generous support from a first-time birder, we’ve generated a list of frequently asked questions to aid you in your upcoming birding experience. I have never been birding at The Biggest Week. Where do I begin?

What can I expect to learn?

Visit our website to learn more about the festival, registration, presentations, trips, and everything else Biggest Week related: www.biggestweekinamericanbirding.com Or, call Black Swamp Bird Observatory at 419-898-4070 for more information.

Identification tips, field guide and binocular use, photography, birding by ear, conservation actions, art skills... Everything you could hope for and more!

Do I need to register to participate? While visiting and birding in many of the areas visited during The Biggest Week are free and open to the public, many of the presentations, workshops, and trips offered during the festival do require registration. You can also participate by registering to volunteer with us. When does registration open?

Do trips go on the famous Magee Marsh boardwalk? We encourage everyone to visit this famous site, and we have expert guides positioned along the boardwalk to help beginners, but The Biggest Week does not lead trips on the Magee boardwalk itself. Some trips begin at the boardwalk (as it is an easy meeting spot), but to avoid adding to this already highly-trafficked area, trips venture to other great birding areas near the boardwalk. Can families participate and is there an age requirement?

Registration is open now! You can register online or by visiting the registration desk located at the Maumee Bay Lodge and Conference Center during the festival. Each year our goal is to open online volunteer and premier registration (an early-bird option) by the first of the year, with general registration opening a few days after these first types and remaining open until the end of the festival.

Absolutely! We encourage every level and age of birding, and children are more than welcome to participate. However, to participate in paid activities, family members must be registered. We offer a discounted registration rate for kids 9 - 18, and free registration for kids 8 and under. There are a number of free activities available to families, and there are numerous other fun places to visit (featured in the Visitors’ Guide) throughout the region for non-birders. Visit the website for more details.

Is there a trip for beginners and first-time attendees?

Are trips “rain or shine?”

There are a number of FREE beginning birder walks offered during the festival. Visit the website for more details.

It depends. Early May weather can fluctuate hour by hour, and rain could last for 30 minutes or all day. Inclement weather such as thunderstorms and tornadoes will prompt a trip cancellation. But a light drizzle shouldn’t postpone a trip.

What should I wear? Well, there’s no such thing as a “birder uniform,” so just be comfortable. The weather in early May can fluctuate from hot and sunny, to cold and rainy (and sometimes even snowy!), all in the same day. Wearing layers is a good way to ensure your comfort no matter what Ohio weather throws at us. You’ll want a comfortable pair of hiking or walking shoes for long hours of looking for birds! What are the “rules” for birdwatching? There are no concrete rules other than state and federal laws that protect habitat and wildlife. Featured in this Visitors’ Guide, the American Birding Association has developed a Code of Ethics for birding, aimed at preserving a positive birding experience for both people and wildlife. Do I need binoculars? While most birds on the boardwalk will be at eye-level (sometimes a few inches from your face!), binoculars are extremely helpful for seeing fine details and birds far away. Can I bring my phone? We don’t expect anyone to leave their cell phone behind. However, we ask (for the enjoyment of others) to turn cell phones off or to vibrate.

How early do I need to arrive before the start of the trip? We ask participants to arrive and check in with their trip leader or room host at least 15 minutes before the start time of an activity to insure a prompt schedule. If you’re going out birding on your own, then feel free to go anytime during daylight hours -- and even after dark if you’re looking for nighttime birds like owls! Should I tip the guide? Tipping is at the discretion of the participant and is not required. Should I bring bottled water? We have a no plastic bottle policy at The Biggest Week, however, many locations visited during The Biggest Week have water and other public amenities. But, some don’t. Especially on long trips and hot days, we advise participants to bring at least two (reusable!) bottles of water. How large are the group trips? To ensure a quality experience for our participants, we limit our trip sizes to 10 participants per van, plus one leader and one driver. Other walks and workshops are of similar size.

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

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THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

Binoculars for Beginning Birders

By the staff of Black Swamp Bird Observatory Along with a good field guide, a pair of binoculars are a birder’s best tool for identifying birds. But as any birder will tell you, there are a plethora of binocular options on the market and finding the right pair can seem like a daunting and confusing task. With so many options to consider, the best way to find the right pair for you is to try out multiple models and brands. But before you buy, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the basics of binoculars.

Binocular Buying Pro Tips For Beginners 1)

Buy the best binocular you can afford - There are some really good binoculars in the $100 $150 price range, and they only get better from there. When buying a binocular, the old adage “you get what you pay for” is definitely true!

Never buy a binocular that’s sealed up in plastic - There are so many factors to consider, that it’s super important to be able to get the “feel” of the binocular before you buy it. (See Tip #3.)

Things to ask yourself when trying out a binocular - Does it fit your hands comfortably? - Is it too heavy? - Do the ocular lenses fit your eyes properly?

Things to consider about the binocular - Is it waterproof? - Does it have a lifetime warranty? - How easy is it to adjust the eyecups?

Magnification The size and power of a binocular is indicated by a set of two numbers such as 7x25, 8x42, or 10x50, generally printed on the focusing knob. The first part of these numbers represents the magnification. In a pair of 8x42 binoculars, the bird you see with the naked eye will be magnified 8 times through the binocular. The bigger the magnification, the clearer the subject will appear. However, a larger magnification (such as 10) will be heavier and harder to hold steady, magnifying shaky hands. Objective Lens Size The second number in the set (25, 42, 50), represents the size of the outer, objective lens in millimeters. This is the lens that gathers light and sends the image through the barrel of the binocular to the ocular lens and your eye. A smaller objective lens (such as 25) will be lighter and easier to carry, but may not produce a clear image in low lighting. A larger objective lens (such as 50) will gather more light and show more details— especially in low lighting—but will be very heavy. Features Most features such as waterproofing come standard in today’s optics. Rotating eyecups that aid in eye relief (the distance your eye is from the ocular lens to view the full image) are essential for those switching between the naked eye and eyeglasses. These cups should rotate smoothly and feel comfortable against your eyes. While most of these are standard, it’s still important to ensure that the binoculars you’re interested in come with these features.

smaller FOV. Likewise, a 32 mm objective optic has a larger FOV than a 42 mm. Cost Binoculars are an investment. You’ll be investing in what you want to get out of your birding and binocular experience. While you could spend upwards of $2,000 on a pair of binoculars that will produce a great image and last for decades, you can often get similar results with a pair in the $500-$800 range. For the new birder, those purchasing binoculars for children, or those who want a simple pair of binoculars for occasional use, there are models available for less than $200. The higher you go in price the better the quality of glass, coatings, and construction will be, with better magnification and image quality. Where to Try and Buy

Binoculars are sold in many stores and online sites. However, you’ll want to find a location that sells binoculars designed for birding and with multiple options to try. Black Field of View Swamp Bird Observatory offers a small selection of binoculars, Field of View (FOV) is an available year-round in our gift important consideration in store. During The Biggest Week choosing a binocular. A In American Birding, Optics binocular’s FOV is measured in feet at 1000 yards (400 ft/1000 Alley (located at Black Swamp Bird Observatory) hosts multiple yds) or degrees of arc (7 degees symbol) and measures how optics companies, with multitudes of binoculars to choose from. much of the world you can see through your binoculars. Your naked eye FOV is approximately 7,800ft/1000 yds or 150 Visit BSBO’s website at bsbo.org to learn more about our degrees symbol. The larger the number, the better. A wide FOV Gift Store and The Biggest Week In American Birding. allows you to scan for hawks in the sky or stay on a quick See the ad in this guide or visit flitting warbler in a tree without moving your binoculars www.biggestweekinamericanbirding.com around. Higher magnification binoculars typically have a to learn more about Optics Alley.

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

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Looking for binoculars or other optics and birding gear? Come and visit...

OPTICS ALLEY May 4-13, 2018 â&#x20AC;˘ 9:00am to 5:00pm

Black Swamp Bird Observatory

13551 West State Rte. 2, Oak Harbor, OH 43449 (Located inside the entrance to Magee Marsh Wildlife Area)

Optics Alley features:

Many optics dealers with an amazing variety of binoculars, re you buy! spotting scopes, and other birding gear to try before

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THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

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Black Swamp Bird Observatory’s The Biggest Week 2018

FREE MAGEE MARSH SHUTTLE LINE

MAGEE BOARDWALK EAST-ENTRANCE PARKING AREA

The O�awa County Transporta�on Agency (OCTA) and Black Swamp Bird Observatory (BSBO) oﬀer an excellent opportunity for birders visi�ng Magee Marsh during The Biggest Week this year. We are excited to present... The Biggest Week Magee Marsh ShuƩle Line! Here’s what you need to know: • This public service is FREE & handicap accessible • Two shu�les will run every 30 minutes from 10am to 5pm, May 4th to 13th • 3 Pick-up & Drop-oﬀ points: the Magee Boardwalk East Parking Area, the Sportsman’s Migratory Bird Center, & Black Swamp Bird Observatory

Look for this sign!

Brought to you by... SHUTTLE PICK-UP

Pick-up/Drop-oﬀ Loca�ons Contact BSBO at 419-898-4070 or email staﬀ@bsbo.org for any ques�ons.

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

LOOKING FOR A GREAT DEAL?

Look for our booth in the Optics Alley, I N O Ctent U L A Rat S , the S P O BSBO T T I N G Son C O May P E S , T6-14. RIPODS, & ACCESSORIES. inBthe Look for our booth in the Optics Alley, A L S O C H E C K O U T O U R B O O T H AT M A N M E E B AY L O D G E in the tent at the BSBO on May 4-13.

LOOKING FOR A GREAT DEAL? Event Location: 13551 W. State Route 2, Oak Harbor, Ohio 43449

OVER 40 YEARS OF PROVIDING OUR CUSTOMERS WITH THE BEST CUSTOMER S AT I S FA C T I O N A N D Q U A L I T Y P R O D U C T S .

BINOCULARS, SPOTTING SCOPES, TRIPODS, & ACCESSORIES. Buy from people you know you can trust, we know Optics & Birds. We support BSBO, OYBC and many Birding and Nature Organizations Forgot your binoculars, we can help! Stop at our booth to pick up a free “loaner binocular” for the day.

il Your #1 reta source for cs birding opti

BIRDING OPTICS OUTFITTER

Drop this ticket off at our booth in the Optics Alley for a chance to win a

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THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

Birding 101: Do you want to be a birder? By Kenn Kaufman Kaufman Field Guides So you’ve caught the buzz about birding. You know that thousands of people have taken up this hobby, or outdoor sport, or whatever it is, and they’re having a great time. And now you want to give it a try, but you’re not quite sure how to start? First thing to know is that birders are an incredibly friendly and welcoming bunch, always glad to welcome new people into the fun. If you show up at a birding site and admit that you don’t have much experience, you won’t be shunned – more likely, you’ll have people wanting to share information and show you birds that you haven’t seen before. There’s no secret handshake and no test that you have to pass. Just say that you’re interested, and the birders will accept you as part of the gang. But here are a few tips to help you get started. Question: Do I need a lot of special gear? No, there’s hardly anything that you really need at the start. When I got into birding as a kid, I had nothing except a burning interest. But things became a lot easier after I got my hands on a field guide and binoculars, and those two items are almost essential – along with some kind of small notebook and pencil, for jotting down notes. Question: What’s a field guide? A field guide is a special kind of book, designed to help you figure out what kind of bird you’re seeing. Usually it’s a fairly small book, so that you can slip it into a large pocket or day pack to carry along. It won’t tell you a lot about each kind of bird – just the basics for telling one kind from another. Question: Couldn’t I just go online and look up the birds there? Well, you could, but that could turn out to be a slow, frustrating process. How do you look it up if you don’t know its name? You could look through thousands of pictures online, and maybe find pictures that matched the bird you saw, but it could take hours. With a field guide, you could look it up on the spot in mere minutes, because these books are designed to get you to the answer quickly. Several good field guides are available, and for twenty bucks you can save yourself hours of online frustration. By the way, here’s a good tip on choosing a field guide, if you can go to a store that has a good selection (like a bird observatory, nature center, or wild bird store). Choose a bird that you already know well – a cardinal, maybe, or a robin, something like that – and look

Young birders appear to have found a sighting. (Photo by Chuck Owens) it up in each of the field guides. Find which book has your favorite treatment of the bird that you chose. Chances are, you’ll like the way that book illustrates and describes other kinds of birds, too. Question: What about binoculars. Are they really necessary? As a kid, I got started bird watching without binoculars, and learned some birds that way; but when I finally saved up money to get binoculars, it made a huge difference. Suddenly I could see all kinds of details I had missed before, and I could tell different birds apart so much more easily. The article in this publication by Melissa Mayntz has good advice on how to choose your first binoculars. Question: Where should I go to look for birds? You can find some birds practically anywhere, including back yards and city streets. To see more different kinds of birds, visit more habitats: the birds that like open fields are different from the ones that live in the forest. Areas near water often have more variety of birdlife, and edges between habitats – such as where a meadow meets the edge of a woodlot – can be very good as well. If you’re in northwestern Ohio, you can find maps and directions for several good birding spots at http://www.bsbo.org/birding/bird-

ing_hotspots.htm Question: Is there some kind of birding uniform? Will other birders know I’m a beginner if I don’t wear the right stuff? No, there’s no uniform! Just go for comfort. Sometimes you can get closer to birds if you avoid bright colors and bright whites, but often it makes no difference. If you’re going to be wading in swamps or snowdrifts, rubber boots may be necessary; but most of the time, tennis shoes will be fine. When the day starts cool and then warms up, it’s helpful to be dressed in layers that you can peel off as the temperature rises. Squeaky windbreakers or raincoats can be a pain if you’re trying to listen for bird calls. Sunscreen and bug repellant can be useful accessories. But again, comfort is the main goal. Question: Any other advice for getting started? As long as you’re not harming the birds or their habitat, or trespassing on private property, or causing problems for other people, there’s no “wrong” way to go birding. The best approach is the one that works best for you. Don’t get discouraged if you can’t recognize every bird you see – just make the most of the ones that you do recognize. Birding is something that we do for enjoyment, so if you enjoy it, you are already a good birder.

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

Where people flock to see birds fly. Where winding trails lead to exciting adventures. And where you’re never too far from all the action. This is Toledo. Enjoy the sights and sounds of peak bird-watching at Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge and Magee Marsh Wildlife Area. Then connect with nature at any one of our 14 area Metroparks. Finally, visit the Toledo Museum of Art’s special birders’ exhibition, Before Audubon: Alexander Wilson’s Birds of the United States, on display April 21-July 15, 2018. P L A N YO U R T R I P AT V I S I T TO L E D O.O R G

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THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

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THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

Tips for Creating a Bird-safe Yard

2018

by Kenn and Kimberly Kaufman, bird experts with Birds and Blooms Magazine (Printed with permission from Birds & Blooms Magazine.)

A lot of planning, time, and money go into attracting and feeding your backyard birds. But making your space appealing to them with food and plants they love is only one part of the equation. You also need to ensure that birds stay safe while in your yard. With these tips, you’ll be on your way to a bustling backyard full of feathered guests.

of compost and organic fertilizers is critical. If you forgo all fertilizers, you can end up with poor plant growth, fewer bugs for birds to eat, and soil erosion as plants decline. And reducing the overall use of harsh pesticides in yards is healthier for humans, too.

BONUS TIPS…

Prevent Painful Panes Thud! When you hear a bird crash into a window, a feeling of dread comes over you. Stand out in your backyard and look at the windows of your house from a bird’s perspective, and it’s easy to see why strikes are a major issue. Windows reflect the sky and fool birds into thinking they can fly right through. Special tape, decals shaped like hawks, and many other products designed to reduce window strikes can be effective and are worth trying. If you’re experiencing bird strikes at windows near your feeders and decals aren’t doing the trick, move the feeders to within 2 or 3 feet of the window. In such a short distance, birds can’t build up any speed between the feeder and the window. Birds may still bump into the window occasionally, but they’re far less likely to be injured. Say No to Pesticides Birding and gardening go hand-inhand, and understanding how birds, bugs and plants benefit one another greatly enhances the rewards. As an active gardener, you probably have found bugs eating your plants and felt the urge to take action. But it’s important to know that most pesticides are nondiscriminate killers that don’t just eliminate specific bugs. Pesticides kill important pollinators, like honeybees and butterflies, as well as helpful insects like lady beetles.

THE CLEAR WAY TO FEED HUMMINGBIRDS Beware: Some retailers offer hummingbird food colored with red dye. Most leading experts agree that the dye can be harmful to birds, and at the very least it’s unnecessary. The top recommendation for hummingbird food is to make it at home. Mix one part granulated white sugar to four parts water. Bring to a boil and allow to cool completely before filling feeders. Any other kind of sweetener besides white granulated table sugar is unsafe. SERVE FRESH SEEDS Heavy spring rains may wreak havoc on birdseed. Check feeders regularly to make sure the seeds aren’t moldy or stale. CONSIDER EASE OF CLEANING When you’re ready to choose and buy a new feeder, it’s important to consider how easy it will be for you to take apart and clean. Because many birds feed on the ground, remember to keep the area under the feeders clean as well. USE NATIVE PLANTS Native plants are not only more suitable for our region-hardier and more resistant to disease-they’re also safer for birds and insects. Research what plants are native for your area - and ask for them at your local plant nursery. A SAFE SPACE FOR CATS Create an outdoor enclosure or cat patio for your feline friend. They allow your kitty to be outdoors without being a threat to birds.

Although many kinds of lawn fertilizers with weed killers are harmful to wildlife, you still should consider organic fertilizers. Building your soil with a strong combination

Clean Feeders Regularly Cleaning bird feeders is certainly not the most glamorous part of attracting birds, but it’s necessary to keep them healthy and avoid spreading diseases. Moldy seeds and accumulated bird droppings create a very unhealthy environment. It’s best to clean your feeders at least once a month using a stiff brush and hot, soapy water. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and allow each feeder to dry completely before filling and putting it back up. Consider cleaning them more often during times of peak feeding activity. Keep Cats Indoors Cats make wonderful companions. But if you love birds and feeding them, it’s best to keep your cats indoors. Studies prove the devastating impact that roaming house cats and feral cats have on birds and small mammals. House cats are not native and also are not part of the natural ecosystem. Many people believe that a well-fed kitty wouldn’t have any reason to hunt birds, but even cared-for cats have the instinct to go after birds. Feeders and roaming cats are a lethal combination. If you have an outdoor cat, or if strays visit your yard, it may be best if you refrain from feeding the birds, for the birds’ own safety. Remember that, according to veterinarians, indoor cats live longer, healthier lives. So keeping them inside not only protects the birds, it’s also better for the cats.

Creating and maintaining a bird-safe yard requires a bit more work and dedication beyond simply putting up a feeder. But the peace of mind that comes with doing your part to keep birds safe is extremely rewarding.

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

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THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

Conservation is the Heart of The Biggest Week In American Birding For Black Swamp Bird Observatory (BSBO), the effort we put forth on the festival is worth it because the event raises awareness and appreciation for birds and habitat conservation in a major way. Below, we offer some simple, fun, beautiful, and even tasty ways to help give something back to the birds that bring such joy to our lives. Buy a stamp, drink some bird-friendly coffee, take a kid (or any beginner) birding, and help us help the birds. 1 ) PURCHASE CONSERVATION STAMPS

All of these conservation stamps are available for purchase at Black Swamp Bird Observatory, Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge, and Magee Marsh Wildlife Area Gift Shops. Your stamp purchase contributes to the purchase and protection of habitat, and the development of educational programs for students and teachers.

FEDERAL DUCK STAMP

OHIO WILDLIFE LEGACY STAMP

2) KEEP CATS INDOORS Domestic cats are recognized as a serious threat to global biodiversity. Cats have contributed to the extinction of 33 species across the world and continue to adversely impact a wide variety of species, including those that are threatened or endangered. The ecological dangers are so critical that the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) now lists domestic cats as one of the world’s worst nonnative invasive species. In the U.S., free-roaming domestic cats kill an estimated 1.4-3.7 billion birds and 6.9-20.7 billion mammals. Visit www.abcbirds.org for more information.

3) TAKE A BEGINNER BIRDING The future of bird conservation depends on keeping the next generation tuned in to nature. With each passing day, advancements in technology in our ever-changing world are pulling kids further and further from nature. Take a few minutes to take your kids out for a walk. Volunteer to lead nature hikes for kids at a nature center, for your local Audubon Chapter, or for your family and friends.

4) DONATE THE GUIA PROGRAM For a donation of just $12, you can support this important international conservation program! Visit www.bsbo.org/donate-the-guia to learn how you can donate copies of the Guia to be used in bird conservation programs in the U.S. and Mexico.

Learn more about local conservation efforts by visiting Black Swamp Bird Observatory’s website at www.bsbo.org

JUNIOR DUCK STAMP

5) LEAVE A BIRDER’S CALLING CARD Pick up some cards at event site locations and leave them when you visit area businesses. We want them to know that you are here because of the great birds (and bird habitat!) in the region.

6) DON'T RELEASE BALLOONS & SKY LANTERNS All released balloons, including those falsely marketed as “biodegradable latex,” return to Earth as ugly litter. They kill countless animals and cause dangerous power outages. Balloons are also a waste of Helium, a finite resource. Balloons can travel thousands of miles and pollute the most remote and pristine places. Learn more about this issue by visiting www.balloonsblow.org

7) PICK UP DISCARDED FISHING LINE Every year, thousands of birds become entangled in abandoned fishing line and die from drowning, starvation, dehydration or strangulation; sometimes struggling days before they die. Because fishing line is such a potent hazard to birds, it is imperative that it be properly cleaned up and safely disposed of. Whether or not you fish, you can always help by picking up discarded fishing line when you see it!

8) PROTECT WINDOWS FROM COLLISIONS As many as a billion birds fall victim to fatal window collisions each year in the US, with the majority occurring on home windows. Birds can’t see glass. Products such as American Bird Conservancy’s BirdTape create a pattern on windows that birds can see, helping to reduce fatal collisions.

2018 The Biggest Week in American Birding

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

The Biggest Week 2018

Women in Birding and Conservation

Brought to you by Black Swamp Bird Observatory

Black Swamp Bird Observatory’s The Biggest Week In American Birding festival is renowned for its fun, inclusive, and diverse atmosphere catering to every walk of life regardless of race, gender, nationality, or physicality. This year, The Biggest Week will feature women in birding and conservation, striving to better understand, depict, and promote the natural world around us. Featured here are the presentations offered during this year’s festival by an exceptional group of birders, conservationists, scientists, and community leaders.

Birding Anywhere & Everywhere Presented by Tiffany Adams In her uplifting and informative presentation, Tiffany Adams will take us on a birding journey through the big city. From tree-lined streets to large city parks, urban areas host a surprising array of bird species. Learning to notice what our city-dwelling feathered neighbors are up to can reveal the never-ending drama that takes place even in the mostly unlikely places.

Birds and People: A Powerful Connection Presented by Kimberly Kaufman & Lili Taylor With rich, vibrant colors, beautiful and bizarre songs, and astonishing feats of migration, birds enrich our lives in myriad ways. In this lively and beautifully illustrated presentation, Kimberly Kaufman and Lili Taylor will explore a few of the reasons they believe birds captivate us beyond any other aspect of nature, and why natural areas are essential components of our quality of life.

The Best Bird EVER! Presented by Laura Erickson From Blue Jays to Snowy Owls. Northern Cardinals to Cuban Todys. Laura Erickson often finds herself saying, “This is the Best Bird Ever!” But what is the Best Bird EVER? Must you be on a major birding trip to find it, or might the Best Bird EVER be in your own backyard? Most important, why should you notice and take pleasure in every Best Bird EVER that comes your way?

Baby Birds: An Artist Looks Into The Nest Presented by Julie Zickefoose In 2002, Julie Zickefoose began to draw and paint wild nestlings day by day. Over the next 13 years, she would document the daily changes in 17 bird species from hatching to fledging. Baby Birds is the enchanting result, with more than 500 life studies. In this talk, Julie shares her influences as well as her artistic process.

A New Narrative Presented by Rue Mapp, Founder, Outdoor Afro In this talk, Rue Mapp will share through personal stories the motivation behind her organization, Outdoor Afro, along with its evolution and social impact to date. She will also outline the urgency for why more diverse audiences need to build a relationship with birding and other recreational activities as a pathway toward greater community health and environmental sustainability.

Tracking The Elusive Connecticut Warbler Presented by Dr. Emily McKinnon Connecticut Warbler - a rare but beloved bird, and often a blank checkbox on many birders’ lists. Why are they so hard to find? Dr. Emily McKinnon set out to learn more. What she found out about the migration behavior of the Connecticut Warbler illuminates for the first time the migration and wintering sites of this enigmatic species.

Visit the Festival Info and Festival Schedule sections on The Biggest Week In American Birding website to learn more about these amazing women in birding and conservation and our other festival speakers and leaders: www.biggestweekinamericanbirding.com

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

Women in Birding and Conservation Continued...

Power Women In Birding: A Big Year Panel Discussion Featuring Lynn Barber, Laura Erickson, Laura Keene, Nancy McAllister, and Yve Morrell This panel discussion features some of the record-setting Big Year competitors who are pioneering the way for woman in birding. These woman are not only smashing records, they're smashing birding's glass ceiling! Don't miss this opportunity to hear the amazing, hazardous, hilarious, and inspiring stories of a group of women who don't know the words "can't" and "quit."

Golden Eagles: Ghosts of the Eastern Forests Presented by Dr. Trish Miller Each fall an estimated 3,000 Golden Eagles migrate from eastern Canada into the US to winter. For the last 12 years, Trish Miller and colleagues have been tracking these enigmatic birds to better understand their behavior and ecology during winter and throughout the year. Dr. Miller will present an overview of their findings and efforts to conserve Golden Eagles.

Neotropic Waves of Spring Migration Presented by Ashli Gorbet with Black Swamp Bird Observatory Ashli Gorbet, Banding Projects Manager at Black Swamp Bird Observatory, has spent numerous hours immersed in spring songbird migration along Ohio's north coast. In her presentation, Ashli will delve into the science that makes bird migration so intriguing, and explore the seemingly sporadic nature of migration.

Field Observation and Sketching Presented by Catherine Hamilton Join Catherine Hamilton on a limited participant sketching and painting workshop open to all levels of artistry. Featuring both an indoor classroom and ample time to work outside, participants will have the opportunity to hone their field sketching and color skills, or to explore something completely new.

The Music of Birdsong Presented by Lisa Rainsong Learning bird songs can feel a little overwhelming, especially when everyone is singing at once! Bird song is music, and the techniques used in ear training classes can provide valuable tools for identification of avian musicians. Lisa Rainsong, of the Cleveland Institute of Music, will help you sort out the singers and their songs through an approach that can be applied to many of the birds we hear.

Young Birder Walk: Birding the Famous Magee Marsh Organized by Laura Guerard Laura Guerard, Statewide Coordinator for the Ohio Young Birders Club and Education Director at Black Swamp Bird Observatory, on behalf of the OYBC, is honored to facilitate these young birders walks at Magee Marsh. Young birders of all ages are welcome to join their peers from across the country to explore the marsh with some of the festival’s expert speakers.

Techniques for Taking Field Notes and Sketching Birds Presented by Kelly Riccetti Don’t let the fear of “not being an artist” hold you back. Field sketching is not about creating works of art. It’s about becoming a better nature observer. Kelly will introduce you to the basics of field sketching and journaling. By combining your observation skills with a few drawing techniques, you’ll be able to go out and start sketching the natural world with confidence!

Register for these and other events through our website or visit the registration desk located at the Maumee Bay Lodge and Conference Center during the festival. www.biggestweekinamericanbirding.com/online-registration

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

1737 E. Perry St., Port Clinton, OH State Rte 163 Exit off Rte 2!

(419) 732-3382

R E S TA U R A N T

FARM MARKET & GREENHOUSE David & Cindy Bench

Open Daily April - October “Where Gardening Friends Gather” 9151 Jerusalem Rd. (St. Rt. 2) Curtice, Ohio 43412 (2 miles east of N. Curtice Rd.)

419-836-9443

www.benchfarms.com

~Located in the barn~ Open Thursday-Sunday A country-primitive, gift shoppe

Welcome Birders

Early Wares

Homemade Onion Ring!

St. Rt. 2

•

Lake Erie Walleye

Bench Farms

• Succulents

Fresh Lake Erie Yellow Perch

Natives • Unusual Plants Primitives

Featuring:

Heirloom Vegetables • Unique Homemades • Rare Herbs

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

THE BIGGEST WEEK ACTIVITIES THAT ARE FREE AND OPEN TO EVERYONE! FAMILY BIRD WALK Date: Sunday, May 13 Time: 10 AM to Noon Location: Pearson Metropark 761 Lallendorf Rd. Oregon, OH 43616 Meet in Parking Lot #4

THE BIGGEST WEEK BIRD TATTOO CONTEST Thursday, May 10, 6 PM The Icebreaker Lounge at the Maumee Bay Lodge and Conference Center

A great way to celebrate Mother’s Day this year! Bring the whole family (all ages welcome) for this enjoyable, familypaced walk in one of the area's great parks! BEGINNING BIRDING WALKS Date: May 5, May 6, and May 12 Time: 10 AM to Noon Location: Pearson Metropark 761 Lallendorf Rd. Oregon, OH 43616 Meet in Parking Lot #4 In these fun and easy workshops, our leaders will share everything you need to know to get started birdwatching. These workshops are FREE and open to the public! No registration required. A limited number of binoculars and field guides will be available to borrow.

BIRDER’S MARKETPLACE

Daily from May 4 - 12 Time: 3 PM to 8 PM Location: Maumee Bay Lodge and Conference Center 1750 Park Rd 2, Oregon, OH 43616 The Birder's Marketplace, in the lobby of Maumee Bay Lodge and Conference Center, will offer a variety of bird—and nature—related items, birding travel information, optics dealers, crafts, birding wear and gear, and much more. Inaugural Event

Join us for this debut event to test your knowledge of birds, birders, and birding. Gather your team (3-5 people) to see Sunday, May 6, 6:30 PM if you have what it takes to The Icebreaker Lounge at be crowned Biggest Week the Maumee Bay Lodge BIRD TRIVIA CHAMPIONS! and Conference Center

THE BIGGEST WEEK BIRD TRIVIA NIGHT

For more information about the activities listed on this page, visit www.bwiab.com, call Black Swamp Bird Observatory at 419-898-4070, or email staff@bsbo.org

There WILL be prizes and they WILL be awesome! So prepare to display your bird tattoo (publicly shareable, please!) and share the story behind it. Impress our judges for your chance at fabulous prizes! The tattoo contest will be followed once again by BIRDER KARAOKE!

YOUNG BIRDER WALK: BIRDING THE FAMOUS MAGEE MARSH

Date: May 5 and May 12 Time: 9 AM to Noon Location: Meet in the parking lot at east end of the Magee Marsh Wildlife Boardwalk Area 13229 West State Route 2 Oak Harbor, Ohio Call 419-898-4070 if you have any questions * Parents welcome! ** Please bring your lunch! The Magee Marsh Wildlife Area is famous for the sensational birding during spring migration! Join young birders from all over the state and the country and meet some really cool field trip leaders too!

TOM BARTLETT’S BIG SIT

Date: Saturday, May 12 (International Migratory Bird Day) Time: 5 AM to 5 PM Location: Magee Marsh (near west end of boardwalk) 13229 West State Route 2 / Oak Harbor, OH For 22 years, Tom Bartlett has conducted a Big Sit fundraiser for Black Swamp Bird Observatory’s (BSBO) education programs. Stop by and visit, help Tom spot some birds, and make your pledge to support BSBO’s education programs!

JUST GO BIRDING! If you live in the area, we want to remind you that you don’t have to register (although we hope you WILL) for the festival to come out and enjoy birding! Most of the best birding areas are free and open to the public. And with so many knowledgeable birders around always willing to share advice and birding tips, you’re sure to see wonderful birds and have a great time! Visit Black Swamp Bird Observatory for all the latest birding information: 13551 W. St. Rt. 2 Oak Harbor, OH 43449 (Just inside the entrance to Magee Marsh).

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING 2018

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

THE BIGGEST WEEK ACTIVITIES HOSTED BY METROPARKS TOLEDO Birding for Beginners Date: May 1 Time: 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM Location: Oak Openings Preserve Buehner Center Price: $5

Birds of Blue Hike Date: May 17 Time: 9 AM to 10 AM Location: Oak Openings Preserve Girdham & Reed Roads Price: Free

Board the Metropark mini bus at the Buehner Center for a beginner field class of birding in our largest Metropark. Travel to select bird habitats such as the sand dunes, fields, and floodplain woods. We may take short walks at these sites. Topics include common backyard and migratory birds, how to use binoculars, birding etiquette and how to use field guides.

Come discover what "blue" birds live and visit the Oak Openings Region during Blue Week 2018! Take a hike with a park naturalist and search for Eastern Bluebirds, Blue Jays, Indigo Buntings and everything blue we can find. Binoculars will be provided, but feel free to bring your own. Bring water, sturdy shoes, and dress for the weather.

Coffee with and for the Birds! Date: May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Time: 8 AM to 9:30 AM Location: Wildwood Preserve Window on Wildlife Price: Free What winged jewels decorate Wildwood Preserve this season? Register for one or all of these weekly walks to look at migratory songbirds followed by a cup of bird-friendly brew in the Window on Wildlife. International Migratory Bird Day Celebration Hike Date: May 12 Time: 11 AM to Noon Location: Oak Openings Preserve Buehner Center Price: Free Get outside yourself and celebrate International Migratory Bird Day! We will discover what migrants are moving through our area in one of the best birding locations in Oak Openings. Binoculars and bird guides will be provided. No experience necessary. Swan Creek Kayak Adventure (Ages 12 and Up) Date: May 13 Time: 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM Location: Erie Street Market Boat Launch Price: $25 Enjoy a scenic paddle on Swan Creek with Metroparks naturalists and Northwest Ohio River Runners. You'll never believe you're in downtown Toledo as you enjoy birds and other wildlife on this urban nature escape. All kayaks and paddling gear provided; wear shoes and clothes to get wet. Participants must be 12 or older; register all participants. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. All Things Blue Date: May 16 Time: 9 AM to 10:30 AM Location: Oak Openings Preserve Oak Openings Lodge Price: Free

Endangered Species Day: Lark Sparrows Date: May 18 Time: 8 AM to 9:30 PM Location: Oak Openings Preserve Girdham & Reed Roads Price: Free The Lark Sparrow is an endangered species in Ohio and nests right here in the Oak Openings Region. It's a sparrow that has unique markings and nests on the ground in Oak Openings Preserve among the sand ridges along Girdham Road. Bring your binoculars if you have them. If not, we will provide. Boat and Kayak Adventure (ages 14 and Up) Date: May 27 Time: 7:30 AM to 10 AM Location: Howard Marsh Pier parking lot Price: $25 Kayaks provide a stealthy way to get close to birds you might not be able to see from shore. All boats and other paddling gear provided; wear clothing and shoes to get wet (no cotton). Participants must be 14 or older; minors must be accompanied by an adult. Register all participants. Don't forget binoculars, water, sunscreen, sunglasses and a snack.

Metroparks of the Toledo Area Phone Number: 419-407-9700 Register for these programs at MetroparksToledo.com

It's Blue Week 2018! Come and discover all things blue at Oak Openings Metropark on a naturalist-led walk as we look for Wild Blue Lupine, Blue Birds, Blue Jays, Blue Violets, Blue Racer Snakes and more!

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING 2018

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

BIGGEST WEEK ACTIVITIES HOSTED BY OTTAWA NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE Tours

Programs

Cedar Point Bus & Van Tours

Bird Hike

Enjoy spring migration while exploring Cedar Point National Wildlife Refuge!

Join us for a guided stroll through the South Woods to discover nesting residents and visiting migrants. Bring your binoculars and dress for the weather.

Date: May 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 Time: Bus: 7-11 AM, Van: 8am-12pm Location: Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge Please call 419-898-0014 for reservations

Navarre Marsh Bus & Van Tours

Date: May 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 Time: Bus: 1-4 PM, Van: 1:30-4:30 PM Location: Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge Please call 419-898-0014 for reservations Conservation in the shadow of a 500-foot nuclear power station cooling tower! Join us to explore this amazing 820-acre marsh. It’s the site where Black Swamp Bird Observatory conducts their bird banding research.

Blue Goose Bus & Van Tours

Date: May 5, 6, 12, 13 Time: Bus: 1-4 PM, Van: 1:30-4:30 PM Location: Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge Please call 419-898-0014 for reservations

Date: May 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 Time: 3-4:30 PM Location: Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge First come, first served

America’s Other Audubon

Date: May 5 Time: 3 PM Location: Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge First come, first served Join author Joy M. Kiser as she chronicles the moving story of Genevieve Jones, her family, and the making of the extraordinary nineteenth-century book Illustrations of the Nests and Eggs of Birds of Ohio.

Join us for behind the scenes access to closed areas of the refuge complex. Destinations vary depending on wildlife use and activity.

Tram Tours of the Refuge

Date: May 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 Time: 9:30 AM, 11 AM, 12:30 PM, 2 PM, and 3:30 PM Location: Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge First come, first served Enjoy the scenery and birds along the refuge hiking trails while riding on the refuge tram. These one-hour tours depart from the Visitor Center.

Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge 14000 West State Route 2 Oak Harbor, OH 43449 www.fws.gov/refuge/ottawa Phone Number: 419-898-0014

Twilight Bus Tours

Date: May 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 Time: 6-9 PM Location: Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge Please call 419-898-0014 for reservations Join us on an evening bus tour of the refuge for a chance to see wildlife active at dusk and into the night. Destinations vary depending on wildlife use and activity.

OTTAWA NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE WILDLIFE DRIVE 14000 W. St. Rt. 2 / Oak Harbor, OH 43449 Experience the refuge from the comfort of your car! Dates: May 4 - 20, May 26 - 28 Time: Sunrise to Sunset *Entrance gate closes 1 hour prior to sunset THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING 2018

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

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THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

TIMING OF SPRING MIGRATION IN NORTHWEST OHIO The Lake Erie shoreline in northwest Ohio is famed as one of the best birding areas in North America, especially during spring migration. Although May is the peak season for visiting birders, spring migration is actually under way from mid-February to mid-June. Here’s an overview of what to expect at each point in the season. Late February: Waterfowl (ducks, geese, and swans) are beginning to move, along with early returning birds like American Woodcock and blackbirds. Flocks of American Crows are moving along the lakeshore. March 1 - 15: Waterfowl migration is fully under way. Raptor migration begins, with passage of Red-shouldered Hawk, Bald Eagle, and Turkey Vulture on southerly winds. Snow Buntings are moving around and an influx of Eastern Meadowlarks, Song Sparrows, and others is evident. March 16 - 31: Peak waterfowl migration, with huge numbers of ducks, geese, and swans on Lake Erie and in area marshes and ponds. Raptor migration is still picking up. Pectoral Sandpiper and other early shorebirds begin to appear in flooded fields. Hardy birds like Tree Swallow and Eastern Phoebe are returning. Large numbers of Rusty Blackbirds, Fox Sparrows, and Golden-crowned Kinglets are present by the end of the month near the lakeshore. April 1 - 15: Waterfowl migration is still heavy, gradually declining through April. Raptor migration continues, with the last passage of Red-shouldered and Rough-legged Hawks. Early shorebird migrants are evident, including yellowlegs and American Golden-Plover. Big numbers of flickers, Hermit Thrushes, Winter Wrens, Yellow-rumped Warblers, and other early migrants are here, and by the middle of the month, a sprinkling of other warblers turns up. Fox Sparrows are still numerous, and many other migrant sparrows are arriving. April 16 - 30: First arrivals for many species, including Neotropical migrants like warblers, vireos, and orioles. Early warblers like Black-and-white, Palm, Nashville, and Black-throated Green are numerous by month’s end. In migrant traps along the lakeshore, this is the best time to find Pine and Orange-crowned Warblers, and a time when “southern” warblers like Worm-eating, Hooded, and Yellow-throated may appear. Typical migrants in this period include Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, and sparrows such as Swamp and White-throated. Herons, egrets, and rails have their main arrival here. Raptor migration features Broad-winged and Sharp-shinned Hawks and Osprey. Shorebird variety and numbers continue to increase. May 1 - 10: Sometime in this period, weather conditions will produce the first really massive arrivals of Neotropical migrants. In the migrant traps along the lakeshore, warbler counts may jump from about a dozen species to nearly 30 species literally overnight, and other Neotropical migrants will abruptly pick up in numbers and variety also. After this big wave, numbers of individual migrants will drop off between successive waves of arrivals, but diversity will remain high through most of May. Early migrants like Rusty Blackbird and Fox Sparrow are mostly gone before May 10th. Migration of raptors and waterfowl is winding down, but shorebirds are still building toward their peak.

but diversity very high during period. Among theCuckoos, warblers,Ruby-throated earlier migrants Blackpoll, andisBay-breasted havethis arrived in numbers. like Palm and Yellow-rumped are declining, but later ones like Magnolia, May 11 - 20: Indigo Numbers of migrants will varyare dayalltotypical day depending on weather, Hummingbird, Bunting, and Bobolink mid-May migrants. THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING 2018 Blackpoll, and Bay-breasted have arrived in numbers. Cuckoos, Ruby-throated but diversity is very high during this period. Among the warblers, earlier Hermit Thrush is past its peak but the other thrushes are abundant, and migrants Hummingbird, Indigo Bunting, and Bobolink areof allshorebirds typical mid-May May 11 - 20: Numbers of migrants will vary day to day depending onmigrants. weather, like Palm and Yellow-rumped are declining, but later ones like Magnolia, flycatchers are arriving. Diversity and numbers are excellent in Hermit Thrush is past its peak but the other thrushes are abundant, and butavailable diversity is very high during this period. Among the warblers, earlier migrants Blackpoll,habitat. and Bay-breasted have arrived in numbers. Cuckoos, Ruby-throated are Indigo arriving. Diversity and numbers ofallshorebirds are excellent in likeflycatchers Palm and Yellow-rumped are declining, but are later ones likemid-May Magnolia, Hummingbird, Bunting, and Bobolink typical migrants. available habitat. Hermit Thrush is past its peak the other thrushesCuckoos, are abundant, and Blackpoll, and Bay-breasted have but arrived in numbers. Ruby-throated flycatchers are arriving. Diversity and numbers shorebirds are excellent Hummingbird, Indigo Bunting, and Bobolink are alloftypical mid-May migrants.in May 21 - 31: Some days continue to produce very high numbers of available habitat. Hermit Thrush is past its peak but the other thrushes are abundant, and migrants, although they are harder to see with the trees fully leafed out. flycatchers are arriving. Diversity and numbers of shorebirds excellent in May 21 - 31: Some daysare continue to produce very high numbers of Summer residents are singing but there is less song now from migrants, available habitat. migrants, although they are harder to see with the trees fully leafed out. since females generally don’ttosing) tend very to migrate later than May 21 -residents 31:(which Some continue produce high of Summer aredays singing but there is less song now numbers from migrants, males. This is the peak migration time for the elusive Connecticut migrants, although they are harder to see with the trees fully leafed since females (which generally don’t sing) tend to migrate later than out. Warbler, and good days for numbers oftothere other late migrants like Mourning, Summer residents are singing but is less song now from migrants, May 21 -This 31: Some continue produce very high numbers of males. is the peak migration time for the elusive Connecticut Wilson’s, and Canada Warblers and American Redstart. Yellow-bellied, since females (which generally don’t sing) tend to migrate later than migrants, they harderoftoother see with trees fully leafed out. Warbler,although and good forare numbers late the migrants like Mourning, Alder, and Olive-sided Flycatchers all peak in late May, Red-eyed Vireo can be abundant, and thrush males. This is the peak migration time for the elusive Connecticut Summer residents are singing but and thereAmerican is less song now from migrants, Wilson’s, and Canada Warblers Redstart. Yellow-bellied, migration continues to be excellent. Many and shorebird species are now at their peak numbers. Warbler, good for numbers of other late migrants like Mourning, since generally don’t sing) tend migrate later than Alder, and Olive-sided Flycatchers allfemales peak in(which late May, Red-eyed Vireo can be to abundant, and thrush Wilson’s, and Canada Warblers and American Redstart. Yellow-bellied, males. This is the peak migration time for the elusive Connecticut migration continues to be excellent. Many shorebird species are now at their peak numbers. Alder, and Olive-sided Flycatchers all peak late for May, Red-eyed Vireo late can migrants be abundant, and thrush Warbler, andingood numbers of other like Mourning, migration continues be excellent. Many shorebird species are now at their peak numbers. Early June: Farther to south in Ohio the songbird migration is mostly over, but Wilson’s, and Canada Warblers and American Redstart. Yellow-bellied, in the migrant traps along the lakeshore, of many can be be Alder, and Olive-sided Flycatchers all peak instragglers late May, Red-eyed Vireo over, can abundant, and thrush Early June: Farther south in Ohio the songbird migration is species mostly but found through the first week of June. Some birds, such as Swainson’s Thrush migration continues to be excellent. Many shorebird species are now at their peak numbers. in the migrant traps along the lakeshore, stragglers of many species can be Early June: Farther south in Ohio thepresent songbird migration is mostly over, but and Yellow-bellied Flycatcher, are still in numbers. Shorebird migration found through traps the first week of June. Some birds, such as Swainson’s Thrush in still the in migrant along the lakeshore, stragglersand of many species be is full swing, Flycatcher, with Dunlin, Ruddy Turnstone, other species can still and Yellow-bellied are still present in numbers. Shorebird migration found through the first week of June. Some birds, such as Swainson’s Thrush expected, and White-rumped Sandpiper probably atand its other peak. Early June: Farther south in Ohio the songbird migration is mostly over, but is still in full swing, with Dunlin, Ruddy Turnstone, species still and Yellow-bellied Flycatcher, are still present in numbers. Shorebird migration in the migrant traps along the lakeshore, stragglers of many species can be expected, and White-rumped Sandpiper probably atand its peak. species still is still in full swing, Dunlin, Ruddy Turnstone, found through the firstwith week of June. Some birds, such asother Swainson’s Thrush expected, and White-rumped Sandpiper probably at its peak. and Yellow-bellied still present numbers. Shorebird migration This overview ofFlycatcher, the timing are of migration wasinwritten for Black Swamp Bird Observatory by Kenn is still in full swing, with Dunlin, Ruddy Turnstone, and other species still Kaufman. To read more of Kenn's thoughts on bird migration in the Crane / Magee This overview of the timing of migration was written for Black Swamp Bird Creek Observatory byMarsh Kenn area, expected, and White-rumped Sandpiper probably at its peak. visit Birding Blog at: http://cranecreekbirding.blogspot.com Kaufman. ToBSBO read more of Kenn's thoughts bird migration the Crane / Magee This Kenn's overview of the timing of migration wason written for Black in Swamp Bird Creek Observatory byMarsh Kenn area, visit Kenn's Birding Blog thoughts at: http://cranecreekbirding.blogspot.com Kaufman. To BSBO read more of Kenn's on bird migration in the Crane Creek / Magee Marsh area, visit Kenn's BSBO Birding Blog at: http://cranecreekbirding.blogspot.com This overview of the timing of migration was written for Black Swamp Bird Observatory by Kenn Kaufman. To read more of Kenn's thoughts on bird migration in the Crane Creek / Magee Marsh area, visit Kenn's BSBO Birding Blog at: http://cranecreekbirding.blogspot.com

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

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THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

Black Swamp Bird Observatory: Founded on Research By Tammy Walro Press Staff Writer Like most jobs, being in the research department at Black Swamp Bird Observatory (BSBO) has its ups and downs, successes and challenges. There are also lots of chances to get your hands dirty. And that’s just fine for Research Director, Mark Shieldcastle, who – along with other BSBO research staff – appeared on the Discovery Channel’s “Dirty Jobs” with Mike Rowe, highlighting BSBO’s research on colonial waders – and the mess that comes with it. “BSBO was really the lead on the ‘Vomit Island’ episode that featured our heron work on West Sister Island,” Shieldcastle said. In cooperation with state and federal agencies, BSBO was the lead in monitoring and banding a sample of the herons and egrets found on the Lake Erie island, which holds 40 percent of all the nesting colonial waders found in the U.S. Great Lakes region. From Bald Eagles to terns, cranes to passerines, Shieldcastle – a former Wildlife Biologist for the Ohio Division of Wildlife – has conducted and been a part of research on multitudes of bird species – effectively rounding out BSBO’s research department across most orders of birds. In 1991, he and a group of others who shared a passion for birds and ornithological research founded BSBO, obtaining a federal non-profit designation one year later in 1992. The new-found organization began with projects already occurring among the group - primarily involving spring migration. Many of BSBO’s current research projects are the flagship studies that predate the organization. Before there was the famous boardwalk of Magee Marsh, Shieldcastle had already started passerine migration work in 1978 within the marsh. “Our focus has been long-term monitoring, which is not done by agencies or universities,” Shieldcastle said. “Looking at the effects of climate change, you need studies that have been running 25-50 years before you can even start to look at change. “We felt one of the important things BSBO could provide is the foundation to keep those kinds of studies going.” Among BSBO’s many research projects, the most noted and long-lasting are its monitoring projects involving migrating songbirds. Each year, in spring and fall, BSBO and other collaborators along the Lake Erie shoreline capture and band nearly 15,000 migrating birds crossing the lake. Data collected during the banding process is used to evaluate the demographics of migratory birds in order to better advise conservation efforts throughout the region. Including Shieldcastle, the BSBO

BSBO Research Director, Mark Shieldcastle, with aid from Brian Washburn, USDA Wildlife Services, secure a radio transmitter on “Buckeye” — Ohio’s first radio-tagged Snowy Owl — as part of project SNOWstorm. (Photo by Terry Breymaier)

Research Department is comprised of Banding Projects Manager, Ashli Gorbet, and Staff Naturalist, Ryan Jacob. While involved in many aspects of BSBO, Gorbet and Jacob were ultimately drawn to BSBO because of its research opportunities. “After spending much of my professional career in New Mexico and the southwest,” Gorbet said, “I came back to Ohio to take the position of Banding Projects Manager with BSBO because of the importance and magnitude of the research that has been conducted over the last 30 years. The long-term migration research that has been undertaken by BSBO is really the gold standard of migration monitoring research. To be involved with and oversee the field operations of these projects was a dream career move for me. I’m very excited to be back in Ohio working on neotropical migrant songbird research in an area of Global Importance to migratory birds.” For Jacob, the value BSBO brings to the local area provided strong motivation to get more involved. “Growing up in northwest Ohio, I never fully recognized the importance of this area ecologically.

It wasn’t until I became a part BSBO’s research efforts that I started to see just how important the Lake Erie marshes are to the billions of migratory birds moving through it, and how critical it is to continue to monitor birds populations as the world continues to change around them.” Dozens of volunteers from across Ohio assist the BSBO research staff throughout the year, helping with all the jobs that go along with operating a banding station. A large, well-trained volunteer base has also allowed BSBO to expand its research efforts by conducting other field surveys, utilizing volunteers when staff are engaged in other projects. Working side-by-side with the research staff, volunteers undergo a rigorous protocol to become involved with BSBO’s projects. Gathering sound scientific data and ensuring the welfare of the birds they study are the ultimate priorities for every research project. But the BSBO staff still aim for volunteers to enjoy themselves and continue to learn more about the birds and the research involved. Research conducted by BSBO has also helped to designate the Lake Erie marsh region as a Globally Important Bird Area, as determined by the National Audubon Society and Birdlife International. With the ever-looming threat of climate change and the need for alternative energy, BSBO’s research is more crucial than ever in documenting the importance of this area for migratory birds. Black Swamp Bird Observatory is located at 13551 State Route 2, Oak Harbor. For more information on BSBO and its research efforts, visit their website at: www. bsbo.org or www.bsbo.org/sponsor-a-mistnet to support their research efforts.

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

May 4-12 1. American Birding Association 2. Wild Bird Tours (May 4-8) 3. Metroparks Toledo 4. Northwestern Ohio Rural Arts (May 4-8)

5. The Nature Conservancy

25. Crossley Books

2. Hog Island Audubon Camp

12. Ventures Birding Tours

26. Just Go Birding (May 4-8)

4. Visit Big Bend

13. Naturally Avian

27. Buchanan Metal

26. Atitlan Music School

14. Sabrewing Nature Tours

28. Drawing 10,000 Birds

31. Princeton University Press

15. Canopy Family

29. Felted Nature

37. The Birding Project

16. Fly In Peru

30. Birder Chicks, LLC

17. Honduras Birding for Conservation Tour

31. Rob Liptak (May 4-8)

18. Wings in Nature

7. Pixel Connection

19. Nature is Awesome

8. Anywhere Guatemala Nature Tours

20. Costa Rica Birding

9. Southeast Arizona Birding Festival

10. Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival

32. Two Loons 18

33. Avantica (May 4-8) 34. Marcy Gray Design 35. Dancing Vulture Designs

21. Birding Eco Tours

23. Wildside Nature Tours

37. Sassafras Wildlife (May 4-8)

24. Bird Watcher’s Digest

38. Houghton Mifflin

22. Birding Africa

26 30

36. A-T-Z Woodcrafts LLC

28 Water’s Edge Dining Room

May 9-12 ONLY

11. Cat-A-Maze – Liz Jaggers

6. Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative

2018

16 15 14

6 5 4

11 3

2 38

Ice Breaker Lounge

Front Desk

B S B O

B S B O BWIAB Registration

May 4-12, 2018 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Located in the lobby of the Maumee Bay Lodge and Conference Center

Maumee Bay Lodge Entrance

A. Destination Toledo CVB (419) 321-6404 B. Lake Erie Shores & Islands CVB West-(419) 734-4386

From June 1st until September 1st 2018,

the road into Magee Marsh (just past Black Swamp Bird Observatory) will be closed to replace aging bridges. Until this time, a 12 TON weight limit has been placed on the wildlife area road to ensure bridge integrity.

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING 2018 SCHEDULE REGISTRATION IS OPEN, THURSDAY, MAY 3 - SUNDAY, MAY 13 AT MAUMEE BAY LODGE & CONFERENCE CENTER

Note: "FREE" means that the activities are free with Festival Registration, "PUBLIC" means festival registration is not required LOCATION ACTIVITY FEE START END FRIDAY, MAY 4 REGISTRATION DESK OPEN 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM VAN #1: OAK OPENINGS PRESERVE GUIDED TRIP $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 2:00 PM VAN #2: OAK OPENINGS PRESERVE GUIDED TRIP $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 2:00 PM VAN #3: THE WILDS OF ERIE COUNTY GUIDED TRIP $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 3:00 PM VAN #4: THE WILDS OF ERIE COUNTY GUIDED TRIP $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 3:00 PM VAN #5: LEADER'S CHOICE GUIDED TRIP $35 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 10:00 AM VAN #6: BIG DAY GUIDED TRIP $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 3:00 PM VAN #7: BIG DAY GUIDED TRIP $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 3:00 PM VAN #8: SOUTH BAY PRIVATE LANDS GUIDED TRIP $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 2:00 PM VAN #9: CATAWBA/MARBLEHEAD BIRDING HOTSPOTS GUIDED TRIP $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 2:00 PM VAN #10: CATAWBA/MARBLEHEAD BIRDING HOTSPOTS GUIDED TRIP $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 2:00 PM PEARSON METROPARK PEARSON METROPARK GUIDED WALK - YOU DRIVE / WE LEAD $15 8:00 AM 11:00 AM MAGEE MARSH WEST END MAGEE MARSH GUIDED WALK FREE 8:00 AM 10:00 AM BLACK SWAMP OPTICS ALLEY PUBLIC 9:00 AM 5:00 PM OTTAWA REFUGE TRAVEL TALK: FREE 10:00 AM 11:00 AM MAGEE MARSH WEST END MAGEE MARSH GUIDED WALK FREE 10:30 AM 12:30 PM VAN #5: LEADER'S CHOICE GUIDED TRIP $35 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 11:00 AM 3:00 PM OTTAWA REFUGE WORKSHOP: BASICS OF IDENTIFYING SPARROWS - KENN KAUFMAN $10 11:30 AM 12:30 PM OTTAWA REFUGE WORKSHOP: INSIDE LOOK AT CROSSLEY ID GUIDE TO WATERFOWL - RICHARD CROSSLEY $10 1:00 PM 2:00 PM PROGRAM: THE MOTUS WILDLIFE TRACKING SYSTEM - STUART MACKENZIE $10 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 2:30 PM 3:30 PM BIRDER'S MARKETPLACE PUBLIC MAUMEE BAY LODGE 3:00 PM 8:00 PM KEYNOTE: BIRDING ANYWHERE AND EVERYWHERE - TIFFANY ADAMS $15 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 4:00 PM 5:00 PM EVENING SOCIAL - FREE REFRESHMENTS - FOR REGISTRANTS ONLY. MUST SHOW BIGGEST WEEK NAME BADGE TO PARTICIPATE BLACK SWAMP SKYDANCING: WOODCOCKS ON THE WING $12 8:30 PM 9:30 PM SKYDANCING: WOODCOCKS ON THE WING $12 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 8:30 PM 9:30 PM

SATURDAY, MAY 5

REGISTRATION DESK OPEN 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

VAN #1: OAK OPENINGS PRESERVE GUIDED TRIP VAN #2: OAK OPENINGS PRESERVE GUIDED TRIP VAN #3: THE WILDS OF ERIE COUNTY GUIDED TRIP VAN #4: THE WILDS OF ERIE COUNTY GUIDED TRIP VAN #5: PT. MOUILLEE STATE GAME AREA GUIDED TRIP VAN #6: PT. MOUILLEE STATE GAME AREA GUIDED TRIP VAN #7: BIRDING PRIVATE LANDS OF THE LITTLE PORTAGE AREA GUIDED TRIP VAN #8: BIRDING PRIVATE LANDS OF THE LITTLE PORTAGE AREA GUIDED TRIP VAN #9: PICKEREL CREEK WILDLIFE AREA/SANDUSKY BAY GUIDED TRIP VAN #10: PICKEREL CREEK WILDLIFE AREA/SANDUSKY BAY GUIDED TRIP VAN #11: BIRDING FOR BEGINNERS GUIDED TRIP MAGEE MARSH GUIDED WALK

SPOTTING SCOPE PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP - JEFF BOUTON, LEICA SPORTS OPTICS

$60 $60 $60 $60 $60 $60 $60 $60 $60 $60 $55 FREE $25 $50 $15 $35 PUBLIC PUBLIC $25 FREE PUBLIC FREE $10 $10 $10 PUBLIC $15 FREE

MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAGEE MARSH WEST END OTTAWA REFUGE MAGEE MARSH WEST END SHELDON MARSH MBL NATURE CENTER MAGEE MARSH EAST END BLACK SWAMP MAGEE MARSH EAST END OTTAWA REFUGE PEARSON METROPARK MAGEE MARSH WEST END OTTAWA REFUGE OTTAWA REFUGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE

6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 7:00 AM 8:00 AM 8:00 AM 8:00 AM 8:00 AM 8:00 AM 9:00 AM 9:00 AM 9:00 AM 10:00 AM 10:00 AM 10:30 AM 11:30 AM 1:00 PM 2:30 PM 3:00 PM 4:00 PM 5:00 PM

2:00 PM 2:00 PM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 2:00 PM 2:00 PM 2:00 PM 2:00 PM 1:00 PM 10:00 AM 10:00 AM 11:00 AM 11:00 AM 12:00 PM 12:00 PM 5:00 PM 10:30 AM 11:00 AM 12:00 PM 12:30 PM 12:30 PM 2:00 PM 3:30 PM 8:00 PM 5:00 PM 6:00 PM

$60 $60 $60 $60 $35 $60 $60 $60 $60 $60 $35 FREE $15 $15 $50

MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MBL NATURE CENTER MAGEE MARSH WEST END EAST HARBOR STATE PARK MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAGEE MARSH WEST END

6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 7:00 AM 8:00 AM 8:00 AM 8:00 AM 8:00 AM

2:00 PM 2:00 PM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 10:00 AM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 2:00 PM 2:00 PM 2:00 PM 11:00 AM 10:00 AM 11:00 AM 11:00 AM 11:00 AM

CELEBRITY WALK: KENN & KIMBERLY KAUFMAN SHELDON MARSH GUIDED WALK - YOU DRIVE / WE LEAD FIELD OBSERVATION & SKETCHING - CATHERINE HAMILTON OHIO YOUNG BIRDER WALK: BIRDING THE FAMOUS MAGEE MARSH OPTICS ALLEY POINT & SHOOT WARBLER PHOTOGRAPHY - STEPHEN INGRAHAM, ZEISS TRAVEL TALK: BIRDING NAMIBIA - BIRDING ECOTOURS WORKSHOP: BEGINNING BIRDING WALK MAGEE MARSH GUIDED WALK WORKSHOP: RAPTORS 101 - ERIK BRUHNKE PROGRAM: BIRDING HOTSPOTS AT THE BIGGEST WEEK - ROB RIPMA PROGRAM: BIRD MONITORING NOW AND INTO THE FUTURE - MIKE LANZONE BIRDER'S MARKETPLACE KEYNOTE: SECRET SUPERHEROES OF THE BIRDING WORLD - KENN KAUFMAN BOOK SIGNING/SOCIAL EVENING SOCIAL - FREE REFRESHMENTS - FOR REGISTRANTS ONLY. MUST SHOW BIGGEST WEEK NAME BADGE TO PARTICIPATE BLACK SWAMP SKYDANCING: WOODCOCKS ON THE WING $12 8:30 PM 9:30 PM SKYDANCING: WOODCOCKS ON THE WING $12 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 8:30 PM 9:30 PM

SUNDAY, MAY 6

REGISTRATION DESK HOURS 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING 2018 SCHEDULE REGISTRATION IS OPEN, THURSDAY, MAY 3 - SUNDAY, MAY 13 AT MAUMEE BAY LODGE & CONFERENCE CENTER

Note: "FREE" means that the activities are free with Festival Registration, "PUBLIC" means festival registration is not required LOCATION ACTIVITY FEE START END BLACK SWAMP OPTICS ALLEY PUBLIC 9:00 AM 5:00 PM PEARSON METROPARK WORKSHOP: BEGINNING BIRDING WALK PUBLIC 10:00 AM 12:00 PM OTTAWA REFUGE TRAVEL TALK: BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY IN ALASKA - SABREWING NATURE TOURS FREE 10:00 AM 11:00 AM MAGEE MARSH WEST END MAGEE MARSH GUIDED WALK FREE 10:30 AM 12:30 PM VAN #5: LEADER'S CHOICE GUIDED TRIP $35 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 11:00 AM 3:00 PM OTTAWA REFUGE WORKSHOP: GULLS 101 - CHUCK SLUSARCZYK, JR. $10 11:30 AM 12:30 PM eBIRD WORKSHOP - NATE SWICK $10 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 1:00 PM 2:30 PM OTTAWA REFUGE WORKSHOP: WARBLER GUIDE: OVERLOOKED ID POINTS/WARBLERS - STEPHENSON & WHITTLE $10 1:00 PM 2:00 PM PROGRAM: GOLDEN EAGLES: GHOSTS OF THE EASTERN FOREST - DR. TRISH MILLER $10 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 2:30 PM 3:30 PM BIRDER'S MARKETPLACE PUBLIC MAUMEE BAY LODGE 3:00 PM 8:00 PM KEYNOTE: BIRDS & PEOPLE: A POWERFUL CONNECTION - KIMBERLY KAUFMAN & LILI TAYLOR $15 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 4:00 PM 5:00 PM BIGGEST WEEK BIRD TRIVIA NIGHT PUBLIC MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:30 PM 8:00 PM EVENING SOCIAL - FREE REFRESHMENTS - FOR REGISTRANTS ONLY. MUST SHOW BIGGEST WEEK NAME BADGE TO PARTICIPATE BLACK SWAMP SKYDANCING: WOODCOCKS ON THE WING $12 8:30 PM 9:30 PM SKYDANCING: WOODCOCKS ON THE WING $12 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 8:30 PM 9:30 PM

MONDAY, MAY 7

REGISTRATION DESK OPEN 12:00 NOON - 7:00 PM

VAN #1: OAK OPENINGS PRESERVE GUIDED TRIP $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 2:00 PM VAN #2: OAK OPENINGS PRESERVE GUIDED TRIP $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 2:00 PM VAN #3: THE WILDS OF ERIE COUNTY GUIDED TRIP $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 3:00 PM VAN #4: THE WILDS OF ERIE COUNTY GUIDED TRIP $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 3:00 PM VAN #5: LEADER'S CHOICE GUIDED TRIP $35 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 10:00 AM VAN #6: BIG DAY GUIDED TRIP $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 3:00 PM VAN #7: BIG DAY GUIDED TRIP $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 3:00 PM VAN #8: SOUTH BAY PRIVATE LANDS GUIDED TRIP $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 2:00 PM VAN # 9: BIRDING PRIVATE LANDS OF THE LITTLE PORTAGE AREA GUIDED TRIP $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 2:00 PM VAN #10: PICKEREL CREEK WILDLIFE AREA/SANDUSKY BAY GUIDED TRIP $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 2:00 PM VAN #11: BIRDING BY CANOE $50 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 12:00 PM VAN #12: PLUM BROOK STATION GUIDED TRIP $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 2:00 PM OTTAWA REFUGE SPOTTING SCOPE PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP - CLAY TAYLOR, SWAROVSKI OPTIK $25 8:00 AM 10:00 AM MAGEE MARSH WEST END CELEBRITY WALK - DR. DREW LANHAM $50 8:00 AM 11:00 AM PEARSON METROPARK PEARSON METROPARK GUIDED WALK - YOU DRIVE / WE LEAD $15 8:00 AM 11:00 AM MAGEE MARSH WEST END MAGEE MARSH GUIDED WALK FREE 8:00 AM 10:00 AM BLACK SWAMP OPTICS ALLEY PUBLIC 9:00 AM 5:00 PM OTTAWA REFUGE TRAVEL TALK: NATURE IS AWESOME FREE 10:00 AM 11:00 AM MAGEE MARSH WEST END MAGEE MARSH GUIDED WALK FREE 10:30 AM 12:30 PM VAN #5: LEADER'S CHOICE GUIDED TRIP $35 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 11:00 AM 3:00 PM OTTAWA REFUGE WORKSHOP: THE MUSIC OF BIRDSONG - LISA RAINSONG $10 11:30 AM 12:30 PM OTTAWA REFUGE WORKSHOP: IDENTIFYING AND APPRECIATING SHOREBIRDS - KENN KAUFMAN $10 1:00 PM 2:00 PM INTRO NATURE/BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY, KEVIN LOUGHLIN (PART ONE - INSIDE) $85 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 1:00 PM 2:00 PM PROGRAM: 9 RULES FOR THE RIGHT-BRAINED BIRDWATCHER - DR. DREW LANHAM $10 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 2:30 PM 3:30 PM BIRDER'S MARKETPLACE PUBLIC MAUMEE BAY LODGE 3:00 PM 8:00 PM KEYNOTE: THE BEST BIRD EVER! - LAURA ERICKSON $15 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 4:00 PM 5:00 PM BOOK SIGNING/SOCIAL FREE MAUMEE BAY LODGE 5:00 PM 6:00 PM EVENING SOCIAL - FREE REFRESHMENTS - FOR REGISTRANTS ONLY. MUST SHOW BIGGEST WEEK NAME BADGE TO PARTICIPATE BLACK SWAMP SKYDANCING: WOODCOCKS ON THE WING $12 8:30 PM 9:30 PM SKYDANCING: WOODCOCKS ON THE WING $12 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 8:30 PM 9:30 PM

TUESDAY, MAY 8

REGISTRATION DESK OPEN 12:00 NOON - 7:00 PM

WORKSHOP: TECHNIQUES FOR TAKING FIELD NOTES/SKETCHING BIRD - KELLY RICCETTI

INTRO NATURE/BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY - KEVIN LOUGHLIN (PART TWO - OUTSIDE) FIELD WORKSHOP: LEARNING TO LOOK AT BIRDS DIFFERENTLY - RICHARD CROSSLEY

CELEBRITY WALK: WOMEN OF THE BIG YEAR SHELDON MARSH GUIDED WALK - YOU DRIVE / WE LEAD MAGEE MARSH GUIDED WALK OPTICS ALLEY TRAVEL TALK: NORTHWOOD BIRDING MAGIC - NATURALLY AVIAN MAGEE MARSH GUIDED WALK VAN #5: LEADER'S CHOICE GUIDED TRIP CLASSROOM SESSION: BIRDING BY IMPRESSIO - KEVIN KARLSON IMPROVING YOUR BIRD/NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY - BRIAN ZWIEBEL (PART ONE - INSIDE) WORKSHOP: EVERYTHING YOU EVER WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT BIRD - DR. DREW LANHAM

BIRDER'S MARKETPLACE KEYNOTE: A NEW NARRATIVE - RUE MAPP

$60 $60 $60 $60 $35 $60 $60 $60 $55 $60 $55 $35 $0 $35 $100 $15 FREE PUBLIC FREE FREE $35 $10 $85 $10 PUBLIC $15

MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MBL NATURE CENTER MBL NATURE CENTER PEARSON METROPARK MBL NATURE CENTER SHELDON MARSH MAGEE MARSH WEST END BLACK SWAMP OTTAWA REFUGE MAGEE MARSH WEST END MAUMEE BAY LODGE OTTAWA REFUGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE OTTAWA REFUGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE

6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 7:00 AM 8:00 AM 7:00 AM 8:00 AM 8:00 AM 8:00 AM 8:00 AM 9:00 AM 10:00 AM 10:30 AM 11:00 AM 11:30 AM 1:00 PM 1:00 PM 3:00 PM 4:00 PM

2:00 PM 2:00 PM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 10:00 AM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 2:00 PM 1:00 PM 2:00 PM 1:00 PM 12:00 PM 10:00 AM 11:00 AM 11:00 AM 11:00 AM 10:00 AM 5:00 PM 11:00 AM 12:30 PM 3:00 PM 12:30 PM 2:00 PM 2:00 PM 8:00 PM 5:00 PM

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING 2018 SCHEDULE REGISTRATION IS OPEN, THURSDAY, MAY 3 - SUNDAY, MAY 13 AT MAUMEE BAY LODGE & CONFERENCE CENTER

Note: "FREE" means that the activities are free with Festival Registration, "PUBLIC" means festival registration is not required LOCATION ACTIVITY FEE START END

EVENING SOCIAL - FREE REFRESHMENTS - FOR REGISTRANTS ONLY. MUST SHOW BIGGEST WEEK NAME BADGE TO PARTICIPATE BLACK SWAMP SKYDANCING: WOODCOCKS ON THE WING $12 8:30 PM 9:30 PM SKYDANCING: WOODCOCKS ON THE WING $12 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 8:30 PM 9:30 PM

WEDNESDAY, MAY 9

REGISTRATION DESK OPEN 12:00 NOON - 7:00 PM

VAN # 6: BIRDING PRIVATE LANDS OF THE LITTLE PORTAGE AREA GUIDED TRIP VAN # 7: BIRDING PRIVATE LANDS OF THE LITTLE PORTAGE AREA GUIDED TRIP

VAN #8: SOUTH BAY PRIVATE LANDS GUIDED TRIP VAN #9: CATAWBA/MARBLEHEAD BIRDING HOTSPOTS GUIDED TRIP VAN #10: CATAWBA/MARBLEHEAD BIRDING HOTSPOTS GUIDED TRIP VAN #11: BIRDING BY CANOE VAN #12: PLUM BROOK MARSH GUIDED TRIP MAGEE MARSH GUIDED WALK FIELD SESSION: SO YOU THINK YOU KNOW YOUR WARBLERS - KEVIN KARLSON IMPROVING YOUR BIRD/NATURE PHOTOGRAPH , BRIAN ZWIEBEL (PART TWO - OUTSIDE)

CELEBRITY WALK: STEVE N.G. HOWELL EAST HARBOR GUIDED WALK - YOU DRIVE / WE LEAD MAUMEE BAY STATE PARK - YOU DRIVE / WE LEAD OPTICS ALLEY TRAVEL TALK: THE NATURAL SPLENDOR OF PANAMA - CANOPY FAMILY PANAMA

MAGEE MARSH GUIDED WALK VAN #5: LEADER'S CHOICE GUIDED TRIP WORKSHOP: LEARNING & IDENTIFYING WARBLER VOCALIZATIONS - STEPHENSON & WHITTLE

$60 $60 $60 $60 $35 $60 $60 $60 $60 $60 $50 $60 FREE $35 $0 $50 $15 $15 PUBLIC FREE FREE $35 $10 $10 PUBLIC $15

MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAGEE MARSH WEST END MAGEE MARSH EAST END MBL NATURE CENTER MAGEE MARSH WEST END EAST HARBOR STATE PARK MAUMEE BAY LODGE BLACK SWAMP OTTAWA REFUGE MAGEE MARSH WEST END MAUMEE BAY LODGE OTTAWA REFUGE OTTAWA REFUGE

6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 8:00 AM 8:00 AM 7:00 AM 8:00 AM 8:00 AM 8:00 AM 9:00 AM 10:00 AM 10:30 AM 11:00 AM 11:30 AM 1:00 PM 3:00 PM 4:00 PM

2:00 PM 2:00 PM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 10:00 AM 2:00 PM 2:00 PM 2:00 PM 2:00 PM 2:00 PM 12:00 PM 1:00 PM 10:00 AM 11:00 AM 10:00 AM 11:00 AM 11:00 AM 11:00 AM 5:00 PM 11:00 AM 12:30 PM 3:00 PM 12:30 PM 2:00 PM 8:00 PM 5:00 PM

$60 $60 $60 $60 $35 $60 $60 $60 $60 $60 $55 $15 $50 PUBLIC $25 PUBLIC FREE FREE $35 $10 $10 $85 $10 PUBLIC $15 FREE PUBLIC PUBLIC

MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE PEARSON METROPARK MBL NATURE CENTER MAGEE MARSH WEST END MAGEE MARSH EAST END BLACK SWAMP OTTAWA REFUGE MAGEE MARSH WEST END MAUMEE BAY LODGE OTTAWA REFUGE OTTAWA REFUGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE

6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 8:00 AM 8:00 AM 8:00 AM 9:00 AM 9:00 AM 10:00 AM 10:30 AM 11:00 AM 11:30 AM 1:00 PM 1:00 PM 2:30 PM 3:00 PM 4:00 PM 5:00 PM 6:00 PM 8:00 PM

2:00 PM 2:00 PM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 10:00 AM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 2:00 PM 2:00 PM 2:00 PM 1:00 PM 11:00 AM 11:00 AM 10:00 AM 10:30 AM 5:00 PM 11:00 AM 12:30 PM 3:00 PM 12:30 PM 2:00 PM 2:00 PM 3:30 PM 8:00 PM 5:00 PM 6:00 PM 7:30 PM 10:00 PM

$60 $60 $60 $60 $35 $60 $60 $60

MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE MAUMEE BAY LODGE

6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM

2:00 PM 2:00 PM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 10:00 AM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 2:00 PM

WORKSHOP: PRINCIPLES & PITFALLS OF FIELD IDENTIFICATION - KENN KAUFMAN BIRDER'S MARKETPLACE MAUMEE BAY LODGE KEYNOTE: POWER WOMEN IN BIRDING - A BIG YEAR PANEL DISCUSSION MAUMEE BAY LODGE EVENING SOCIAL - FREE REFRESHMENTS - FOR REGISTRANTS ONLY. MUST SHOW BIGGEST WEEK NAME BADGE TO PARTICIPATE BLACK SWAMP SKYDANCING: WOODCOCKS ON THE WING $12 8:30 PM 9:30 PM SKYDANCING: WOODCOCKS ON THE WING $12 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 8:30 PM 9:30 PM

THURSDAY, MAY 10

REGISTRATION DESK OPEN 12:00 NOON - 7:00 PM

VAN #1: OAK OPENINGS PRESERVE GUIDED TRIP VAN #2: OAK OPENINGS PRESERVE GUIDED TRIP VAN #3: THE WILDS OF ERIE COUNTY GUIDED TRIP VAN #4: THE WILDS OF ERIE COUNTY GUIDED TRIP VAN #5: LEADER'S CHOICE GUIDED TRIP VAN #6: PT. MOUILLEE STATE GAME AREA GUIDED TRIP VAN #7: PT. MOUILLEE STATE GAME AREA GUIDED TRIP VAN #8: NORTHWEST BAY PRIVATE LANDS GUIDED TRIP VAN #9: PICKEREL CREEK WILDLIFE AREA/SANDUSKY BAY GUIDED TRIP VAN #10: PICKEREL CREEK WILDLIFE AREA/SANDUSKY BAY GUIDED TRIP VAN #11: STANDING RUSH CONSERVATION FUND GUIDED TRIP PEARSON METROPARK GUIDED WALK - YOU DRIVE / WE LEAD CELEBRITY WALK - RICHARD CROSSLEY MAGEE MARSH GUIDED WALK POINT & SHOOT WARBLER PHOTOGRAPHY - STEPHEN INGRAHAM, ZEISS OPTICS ALLEY TRAVEL TALK: MAGEE MARSH GUIDED WALK VAN #5: LEADER'S CHOICE GUIDED TRIP WORKSHOP: GULLS SIMPLIFIED - KEVIN KARLSON PROGRAM: SHIFT HAPPENS: RARE (VAGRANT) BIRDS IN NA - STEVE NG HOWELL INTRO NATURE/BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY - KEVIN LOUGHLIN (PART ONE - INSIDE)

PROGRAM: WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATION IN THE GREAT BLACK SWAMP - MATTHEW KOVACH

BIRDER'S MARKETPLACE KEYNOTE: BABY BIRDS: AN ARTIST LOOKS INTO THE NEST - JULIE ZICKEFOOSE BOOK SIGNING/SOCIAL BIRD TATTOO CONTEST KARAOKE EVENING SOCIAL - FREE REFRESHMENTS - FOR REGISTRANTS ONLY. MUST SHOW BIGGEST WEEK NAME BADGE TO PARTICIPATE BLACK SWAMP SKYDANCING: WOODCOCKS ON THE WING $12 8:30 PM 9:30 PM SKYDANCING: WOODCOCKS ON THE WING $12 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 8:30 PM 9:30 PM

FRIDAY, MAY 11

REGISTRATION DESK OPEN 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING 2018 SCHEDULE REGISTRATION IS OPEN, THURSDAY, MAY 3 - SUNDAY, MAY 13 AT MAUMEE BAY LODGE & CONFERENCE CENTER

Note: "FREE" means that the activities are free with Festival Registration, "PUBLIC" means festival registration is not required LOCATION ACTIVITY FEE START END VAN #9: PLUM BROOK STATION GUIDED TRIP $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 2:00 PM VAN #10: BIRDING THE METROPARKS OF TOLEDO GUIDED TRIP $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 2:00 PM VAN #11: BIRDING BY CANOE $50 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM 12:00 PM VAN #12: BIRDING FOR BEGINNERS GUIDED TRIP $55 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 7:00 AM 1:00 PM INTRO NATURE/BIRD PHOTOGRAPH - KEVIN LOUGHLIN (PART TWO - OUTSIDE) $0 MBL NATURE CENTER 7:00 AM 10:00 AM PHOTOGRAPHY AND PROCESSING WORKSHOP - CHRISTOPHER TAYLOR $85 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 7:00 AM 12:00 PM MAGEE MARSH WEST END MAGEE MARSH GUIDED WALK FREE 8:00 AM 10:00 AM FIELD OBSERVATION & SKETCHING - CATHERINE HAMILTON $35 MBL NATURE CENTER 8:00 AM 12:00 PM MAGEE MARSH WEST END CELEBRITY WALK: JULIE ZICKEFOOSE $50 8:00 AM 11:00 AM FIELD WORKSHOP: BIRDING BY IMPRESSION - KEVIN KARLSON $35 MBL NATURE CENTER 8:00 AM 11:00 AM SHELDON MARSH GUIDED WALK - YOU DRIVE / WE LEAD $15 SHELDON MARSH 8:00 AM 11:00 AM BLACK SWAMP OPTICS ALLEY PUBLIC 9:00 AM 5:00 PM OTTAWA REFUGE TRAVEL TALK: FREE 10:00 AM 11:00 AM MAGEE MARSH WEST END MAGEE MARSH GUIDED WALK FREE 10:30 AM 12:30 PM VAN #5: LEADER'S CHOICE GUIDED TRIP $35 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 11:00 AM 3:00 PM OTTAWA REFUGE WORKSHOP: THRUSHES & THEIR LOOK-ALIKES, ERIK BRUHNKE $10 11:30 AM 12:30 PM OTTAWA REFUGE CLASSROOM SESSION: SO YOU THINK YOU KNOW YOUR WARBLER - KEVIN KARLSON $10 1:00 PM 2:00 PM PROGRAM: NEOTROPIC WAVES OF SPRING MIGRATION - ASHLI GORBET $10 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 2:30 PM 3:30 PM BIRDER'S MARKETPLACE PUBLIC MAUMEE BAY LODGE 3:00 PM 8:00 PM KEYNOTE: TRACKING THE ELUSIVE CONNECTICUT WARBLE - DR. EMILY MCKINNON $15 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 4:00 PM 5:00 PM EVENT: BIRDER'S PROM $5 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 7:00 PM 10:00 PM EVENING SOCIAL - FREE REFRESHMENTS - FOR REGISTRANTS ONLY. MUST SHOW BIGGEST WEEK NAME BADGE TO PARTICIPATE BLACK SWAMP SKYDANCING: WOODCOCKS ON THE WING $12 8:30 PM 9:30 PM SKYDANCING: WOODCOCKS ON THE WING $12 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 8:30 PM 9:30 PM

SATURDAY, MAY 12 - INTERNATIONAL MIGRATORY BIRD DAY

REGISTRATION DESK OPEN 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM PUBLIC MAGEE MARSH WEST END 5:00 AM $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM $35 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM $60 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 6:00 AM $85 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 7:00 AM OTTAWA REFUGE $25 8:00 AM MAGEE MARSH WEST END FREE 8:00 AM $15 EAST HARBOR STATE PARK 8:00 AM $15 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 8:00 AM MAGEE MARSH EAST END PUBLIC 9:00 AM BLACK SWAMP PUBLIC 9:00 AM PEARSON METROPARK PUBLIC 10:00 AM OTTAWA REFUGE FREE 10:00 AM MAGEE MARSH WEST END FREE 10:30 AM $35 MAUMEE BAY LODGE 11:00 AM OTTAWA REFUGE PROGRAM: ELECTROMAGNETIC EYES ON SKY: RADAR ORNITHOLOGY - ANDY JONES, PHD $10 11:30 AM OTTAWA REFUGE WORKSHOP: LEARNING TO APPRECIATE AND IDENTIFY FLYCATCHERS- KENN KAUFMAN $10 1:00 PM BIRDER'S MARKETPLACE PUBLIC MAUMEE BAY LODGE 3:00 PM MAUMEE BAY LODGE KEYNOTE: BIRD ID EXPLAINED: THE 12 STEP PROGRAM - STEVE N.G. HOWELL $15 4:00 PM MAUMEE BAY LODGE BOOK SIGNING/SOCIAL FREE 5:00 PM TOM BARTLETT'S BIG SIT VAN #1: OAK OPENINGS PRESERVE GUIDED TRIP VAN #2: OAK OPENINGS PRESERVE GUIDED TRIP VAN #3: THE WILDS OF ERIE COUNTY GUIDED TRIP VAN #4: THE WILDS OF ERIE COUNTY GUIDED TRIP VAN #5: LEADER'S CHOICE GUIDED TRIP VAN #6: PT. MOUILLEE STATE GAME AREA GUIDED TRIP VAN #7: PT. MOUILLEE STATE GAME AREA GUIDED TRIP VAN #8: BIRDING PRIVATE LANDS OF THE LITTLE PORTAGE AREA GUIDED TRIP VAN #9: CATAWBA/MARBLEHEAD BIRDING HOTSPOTS GUIDED TRIP VAN #10: CATAWBA/MARBLEHEAD BIRDING HOTSPOTS GUIDED TRIP PHOTOGRAPHY AND PROCESSING WORKSHOP - CHRISTOPHER TAYLOR SPOTTING SCOPE PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP- ROBERT WILSON, KOWA MAGEE MARSH GUIDED WALK EAST HARBOR GUIDED WALK - YOU DRIVE / WE LEAD MAUMEE BAY STATE PARK - YOU DRIVE / WE LEAD OHIO YOUNG BIRDER WALK: BIRDING THE FAMOUS MAGEE MARSH OPTICS ALLEY WORKSHOP: BEGINNING BIRDING WALK TRAVEL TALK: WHERE TO GO BIRDING IN AFRICA - BIRDING AFRICA MAGEE MARSH GUIDED WALK VAN #5: LEADER'S CHOICE GUIDED TRIP

5:00 PM 2:00 PM 2:00 PM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 10:00 AM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 2:00 PM 2:00 PM 2:00 PM 12:00 PM 10:00 AM 10:00 AM 11:00 AM 11:00 AM 12:00 PM 5:00 PM 12:00 PM 11:00 AM 12:30 PM 3:00 PM 12:30 PM 2:00 PM 8:00 PM 5:00 PM 6:00 PM

SUNDAY, MAY 13

REGISTRATION DESK OPEN 9:00 AM - 12:00 NOON

$60 $60 $60 $60 $35 $60 $60 $60 $60 $60 $50 $15 FREE PUBLIC PUBLIC FREE $35

6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM 8:00 AM 8:00 AM 9:00 AM 10:00 AM 10:30 AM 11:00 AM

2:00 PM 2:00 PM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 10:00 AM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 2:00 PM 2:00 PM 2:00 PM 12:00 PM 11:00 AM 10:00 AM 5:00 PM 12:00 PM 12:30 PM 3:00 PM

2018

Photo by Vishnevskiy Vasily, Shutterstock

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

KEEP CATS INDOORS Better for cats. Better for birds. Better for people.

The Challenge: Scientists estimate that every year in the United States, free-roaming domestic cats kill from 1.4 to 3.7 billion birds and 6.9 to 20.7 billion mammals. (For perspective, consider that 1.4 billion is equivalent to the entire human population of China.) Life for outdoor cats is risky and on average results in considerably shorter lives. Outdoor cats can be hit by cars; attacked by dogs, coyotes, or other wildlife; contract fatal diseases, such as rabies and feline distemper; and be lost, stolen, or poisoned. Feral and other free-roaming cats also pose a health risk to humans from the spread of diseases such as rabies and toxoplasmosis. Cats, the top carrier of rabies among domestic animals, pose a disproportionately larger risk of exposure to people than wildlife. Toxoplasmosis, which can infect any warm-blooded species, is deposited into the environment through cat feces and can lead to conditions such as memory loss, blindness, and death.

Studies show that outdoor cat colonies, sustained through the practice of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Trap, Neuter, Release,â&#x20AC;? are also bad for birds and do not reduce feral cat populations. They are also inhumane for the cats, which lead short, harsh lives. Birds Impacted: Common songbirds, such as the Northern Cardinal, Blue Jay, and House Wren, are victims of cat predation, as well as long-distance migrants such as the Indigo Bunting and Yellow Warbler. Rare and endangered species, such as the Piping Plover, Florida Scrub-Jay, and California Least Tern are also affected, along with birds that nest or feed on the ground, such as the California Quail. The Solution: Please, keep cats indoors. There are a number of ways to help cats adjust to an indoor lifestyle, and American Bird Conservancy provides a wealth of resources that can help. Many veterinarians and animal welfare organizations support keeping cats indoors for their own safety, as well as to prevent them from killing wildlife.

For more information: www.abcbirds.org/cats

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

Young conservationists propel statewide club By Katie Siebenaller Press Staff Writer During The Biggest Week In American Birding, visitors to northwest Ohio will find birders of all ages, including the youth members of the Ohio Young Birders Club (OYBC). The OYBC will be organizing two young birders walks at Magee Marsh. These walks are free and open to all young people. You need not be a member of the OYBC to attend. In May 2006, members of Black Swamp Bird Observatory (BSBO) education staff brought together a group of six young birders from across the state to discuss forming a club for youth interested in birds and nature. The Ohio Young Birders Club was formed as a result, and has been a program of BSBO’s ever since. Open to students ages 12-18, as well as supporting adult members, the Ohio Young Birders Club has grown from its starting six to over 200 members. The club strives to create a community for young nature enthusiasts, and to encourage, educate, and empower our youth conservation leaders. The OYBC is comprised of five chapters in total: NW Ohio, NE Ohio, Central Ohio, SW Ohio, and HolmesWayne County. Partners of these chapters include the Columbus Audubon Society, Cleveland Metroparks, Toledo Metroparks, and the Amish communities in Holmes and Wayne counties. “What I hear most from participants is that the OYBC provides them with the opportunity to connect with other young birders,” says Laura Guerard, BSBO’s Education Director and statewide coordinator for the OYBC. “For some, they may be the only young birder in their grade at school or in their community of friends. The OYBC fosters an environment of acceptance, where students find connections with other students who have a similar passion for nature and birds. It is incredibly heartwarming to watch friendships spark and grow through participation in field trips and statewide outings. Many members also participate in summer camps and connect with young birders and nature enthusiasts from across the nation — and other countries too — and develop life-long friendships.” Adriana Losey, a student member active in the Central Ohio Chapter says, “[The] OYBC allows me to connect with other teenagers that share a common interest. It’s a nice break from school life,” In addition to participating in The Biggest Week, the OYBC offers adventures all over the state of Ohio, including a winter birding by boat trip on Lake Erie, birding by kayak, and many fun and interesting field trips. Student

Birders of all ages enjoyed the OYBC-sponsored young birder walk during the 2017 Biggest Week in American Birding (submitted from Black Swamp Bird Observatory). members are involved in choosing locations and making these plans. The OYBC is in the process of planning out-of-state outings, hopefully to give young birders the opportunity to experience locations they might not be able to travel to on their own. Each chapter of the OYBC also participates in at least one community service project every year. This year, members have helped remove invasive species from a critically endangered habitat, built nest boxes for The Barn Owl Project, and designed, implemented and monitored a bluebird trail, amongst other projects. To support the OYBC, its members seek pledges and donations for their annual Big Sit & Big Day fundraisers. During the month of October, the individual chapters will host their own local Big Sit or Big Day event. At these events, people pledge money for every species of bird spotted. At a Big Sit, birds are viewed from one location, whereas at a Big Day multiple locations are viewed from throughout the event. All of the proceeds are employed to help educate young people about birds, the importance of being good stewards to the environment and utilizing natural resources responsibly. The OYBC offers scholarships, allowing members to attend other camps, classes and workshops as well. These scholarships are funded by OYBC partners, private donations, and proceeds from special fundraising events. OYBC membership offers young people opportunities to develop creative and professional skills as well. Students are encouraged to submit articles, artwork, poetry and photographs to Golden-Wings, a print newsletter made up entirely of student-submitted content. And the Annual Ohio Young Birders Conference presents students with a chance to conquer the challenge of public speaking through presenta-

tions to audiences of more than 100 people. The Annual Ohio Young Birders Conference is the OYBC’s keystone event. In 2006, the inaugural conference represented the first of its kind, hosting presentations all given by students 18 and under. Drawing participants of all ages from Ohio and beyond, the conference features a keynote address by a regional, national or international youth conservation leader. This unique event is open to non-members and invites families to attend. Since its inception, the Ohio Young Birders Club has paved the way for the formation of similar programs across the country. “As the founder of the OYBC, this country’s first young birders club, Black Swamp Bird Observatory receives many requests for information on how to start a young birders club,” Guerard states. Using their OYBC model, BSBO has mentored 16 states in establishing like programs, greatly expanding its impact on today’s youth and the future of birding and conservation. Black Swamp Bird Observatory’s success with the OYBC eventually led to a partnership with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology (CLO) in 2012. With its partners at CLO, BSBO created the Young Birders Network (YBN), which aims to provide resources for young birders, as well as giving their adult advocates a platform to encourage and support them. The network, geared for ages 12-18, does provide some resources that may aid younger birders and college students too. The YBN also features the Young Birders Club Toolkit, a resource for anyone wishing to start a local birding club. Black Swamp Bird Observatory is located at 13551 OH-2, Oak Harbor. For more information about BSBO and the OYBC, visit their websites, http:// www.bsbo.org/ and http://www. ohioyoungbirders.org/.

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

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THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

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THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

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OHIO WILDLIFE LEGACY STAMP The Magee Marsh Boardwalk was completed in 1989 as the first project funded by ODNR Division of Wildlife’s Diversity Fund. Installed to protect the local habitat from the increased visitation during the spring songbird migration, the boardwalk was the first of many projects focused on nongame species and the people who enjoy viewing them. Initially these projects were funded by the Do Something Wild! income tax checkoff, as well as the wildlife license plates sales programs. In 2010, the ODNR Division of Wildlife added the Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp as an additional way to generate funds for diversity projects. Through the years, Ohio’s conservation efforts have been funded largely by hunters, anglers, and trappers through the purchases of licenses and permits. The Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp provides an additional funding opportunity to support conservation specially geared toward wildlife watchers, photographers, campers, hikers, and all wildlife enthusiasts. Each year, a new $15 Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp featuring a native animal can be purchased. Stamps are available at Black Swamp Bird Observatory, Friends of Magee Marsh bookstore in the Sportsmen’s Migratory Bird Center, the ODNR Division of Wildlife’s tent during The Biggest Week in American Birding, or online at wildohio.gov. The funds generated by the stamp are invested in the state’s Wildlife Diversity Fund. Some examples of projects supported by the stamp include: 

Habitat restoration and acquisition.

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Education materials, such as ODNR Division of Wildlife field guides and CDs.

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Research projects on endangered and threatened species such as monitoring Common Tern nesting platforms

A photo contest is held annually to select a winning entry for the next year’s stamp. The contest is open to Ohio residents18 years and older who are interested in submitting a photo of the pre-determined species. The subject for the 2019 stamp is Ohio’s native owls. For more information, visit wildohio.gov/legacystamp. As a bonus, anyone who purchases an Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp can show it at Ohio State Park lodges, Sundays through Thursdays, to receive a 25 percent discount.

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AMERICAN BIRDING ASSOCIATION CODE OF ETHICS Everyone who enjoys birds and birding must always respect wildlife, its environment, and the rights of others. In any conflict of interest between birds and birders, the welfare of the birds and their environment comes first. PRINCIPLES OF BIRDING ETHICS 1. Promote the welfare of birds and their environment. 1(a) Support the protection of important bird habitat. 1(b) To avoid stressing birds or exposing them to danger, exercise restraint and caution during observation, photography, sound recording, or filming. Limit the use of recordings and other methods of attracting birds, and never use such methods in heavily birded areas, or for attracting any species that is Threatened, Endangered, or of Special Concern, or is rare in your local area. Keep well back from nests and nesting colonies, roosts, display areas, and important feeding sites. In such sensitive areas, if there is a need for extended observation, photography, filming, or recording, try to use a blind or hide, and take advantage of natural cover. Use artificial light sparingly for filming or photography, especially for close-ups. 1(c) Before advertising the presence of a rare bird, evaluate the potential for disturbance to the bird, its surroundings, and other people in the area, and proceed only if access can be controlled, disturbance minimized, and permission has been obtained from private land-owners. The sites of rare nesting birds should be divulged only to the proper conservation authorities. 1(d) Stay on roads, trails, and paths where they exist; otherwise keep habitat disturbance to a minimum. 2. Respect the law, and the rights of others. 2(a) Do not enter private property without the owner's explicit permission. 2(b) Follow all laws, rules, and regulations governing use of roads and public areas, both at home and abroad. 2(c) Practice common courtesy in contacts with other people. Your exemplary behavior will generate goodwill with birders and non-birders alike. 3. Ensure that feeders, nest structures, and other artificial bird environments are safe. 3(a) Keep dispensers, water, and food clean, and free of decay or disease. It is important to feed birds continually during harsh weather. 3(b) Maintain and clean nest structures regularly. 3(c) If you are attracting birds to an area, ensure the birds are not exposed to predation from cats and other domestic animals, or dangers posed by artificial hazards.

4. Group birding, whether organized or impromptu, requires special care. Each individual in the group, in addition to the obligations spelled out in Items #1 and #2, has responsibilities as a Group Member. 4(a) Respect the interests, rights, and skills of fellow birders, as well as people participating in other legitimate outdoor activities. Freely share your knowledge and experience, except where code 1(c) applies. Be especially helpful to beginning birders. 4(b) If you witness unethical birding behavior, assess the situation, and intervene if you think it prudent. When interceding, inform the person(s) of the inappropriate action, and attempt, within reason, to have it stopped. If the behavior continues, document it, and notify appropriate individuals or organizations. Group Leader Responsibilities [amateur and professional trips and tours]. 4(c) Be an exemplary ethical role model for the group. Teach through word and example. 4(d) Keep groups to a size that limits impact on the environment, and does not interfere with others using the same area. 4(e) Ensure everyone in the group knows of and practices this code. 4(f) Learn and inform the group of any special circumstances applicable to the areas being visited (e.g. no tape recorders allowed). 4(g) Acknowledge that professional tour companies bear a special responsibility to place the welfare of birds and the benefits of public knowledge ahead of the company's commercial interests. Ideally, leaders should keep track of tour sightings, document unusual occurrences, and submit records to appropriate organizations. Please Follow this Code and Distribute and Teach it to Others The American Birding Association's Code of Birding Ethics may be freely reproduced for distribution/dissemination. Please acknowledge the role of ABA in developing and promoting this code with a link to the ABA website using the URL http://www.aba.org. Thank you.

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Fun Places to Visit

The Chateau Tebeau Winery. Wineries • Firelands Winery Firelands Winery has been producing ne Ohio wine since 1880. A retail shop offers tastings, light fare, tours, home wine-making supplies, and gifts, while an outdoor covered patio is a perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine. 917 Bardshar Rd. (off US 6), Sandusky, OH 44870; (419) 625-5474 www.relandswinery.com • Heineman’s Winery Proudly celebrating 130 years in 2018, Heineman’s Winery is a fthgeneration winery and the oldest family-owned and operated winery in Ohio. Visit the tasting room and wine garden; sample award-winning wines; and tour Crystal Cave, the world’s largest celestite geode. 978 Catawba Ave., Put-in-Bay, OH 43456; (419) 285-2811 www.heinemanswinery.com • Put-in-Bay Winery Put-in-Bay Winery offers a guided, wine-tasting tour of the historic Valentine Doller Estate that showcases award-winning local wines, while transporting you to the heart of the Gilded Age. Enjoy a glass of wine on the porch while looking at breathtaking views of Put-in-Bay harbor. At the Doller Estate, 392 Bayview Ave., Put-in-Bay, OH 43456; (419) 285-3343 www.putinbaywinery.com • The Kelleys Island Wine Co. The Kelleys Island Wine Co. is a family-friendly establishment specializing in handcrafted island wines. A boutique winery featuring up to seven wines at a time, this island favorite also features a restaurant offering house-made, fresh options like small plates, sliders, and pizzas. 418 Woodford Rd., Kelleys Island, OH 43438; (419) 746-2678 www.kelleysislandwineco.com • Rocky Point Winery Located just down the street from its namesake, the Marblehead Lighthouse, the Rocky Point Winery provides visitors with a small-town touch, local wines, and unique gifts.

111 W. Main St., Marblehead, OH 43440; (419) 515-1494 www.rockypointwinery.com • Sawmill Creek Wine Tours By special reservation through a wine tour from Sawmill Creek Resort, up to 12 guests per tour can visit Paper Moon and Quarry Hill wineries for an afternoon of ne food and delicious wines, guided by a tour guide with extensive and intimate knowledge of the region’s history and culture. For four hours, nd yourself lost in the beautiful countryside, surrounded by ne food, exquisite wines, and excellent conversation. Wine Country Tours are offered Saturdays by appointment and usually depart at 12:30 p.m. The cost is $49 per person (including taxes and gratuities) and includes the cost for wine, transportation, and appetizers at each location. 400 Sawmill Creek Dr. (off US 6), Huron, OH 44839; (419) 433-3800 www.sawmillcreekresort.com • Chateau Tebeau Bob and Mary Tebeau would like to welcome and invite you to experience Chateau Tebeau Vineyard and Winery with French varietal, American, hybrid, and fruit wines, plus hard and iced cider. Walk the vineyards, sit by the koi pond, or relax by the replace in the tasting room. You are sure to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Menu available, tours, craft beer, and live entertainment also offered. 525 SR 635, Helena, OH 43435; (419) 638-5411 www.chateautebeauwinery.com • Majestic Oak Winery We welcome you to join us at Majestic Oak, sip our wine, relax and enjoy! Our wines include red, rose, white and fruit wines and our nano brewery, Neon Groundhog Brewery, offers a variety of beers. 13554 Mohler Rd., Grand Rapids, OH; 419-875-6474 www.majesticoakwinery.com Local Breweries • Catawba Island Brewing Company Catawba Island Brewing Company is a

small production brewery on the beautiful Catawba Island on the shores of Lake Erie. The Tasting Room boasts plenty of natural light, comfortable indoor and outdoor seating, and a laidback nautical-industrial atmosphere. 2330 E Harbor Road, Port Clinton, OH 43452; (419) 960-7764 • Put-in-Bay Brewery & Distillery Opened in 1996, Put-in-Bay Brewery & Distillery is proud to be the island’s rst brewery and legal distillery making Island Rum and Island Vodka! Put-in-Bay Brewery & Distillery features homemade soups, salads, sandwiches, and more to complement their fresh selection of house made brews! 441 Catawba Ave., Put-in-Bay, OH 43459; (419) 285-4677 www.putinbaybrewery.com • Black Cloister Brewing Company When you pull up a barstool or settle in at our community table, you’ll have the opportunity to select from beers in a variety of styles, which are brewed from the nest ingredients and with the highest standards. From attentive service, to beers that are familiar or tantalizingly unique, to an overall sense of community and camaraderie, this is the Black Cloister experience. 619 Monroe St., Toledo, OH; (419) 214-1500 www.blackcloister.com • Maumee Bay Brew Pub The Maumee Bay Brew Pub is located in the main ballroom on the second oor of the historic Oliver House. Our menu offers terric comfort food, wood-re brick oven pizzas, “build your own” burgers, and great appetizers. Whether you like a crisp and light summer beer, a hoppy and balanced IPA, a full-bodied toasty stout, or something a bit historical, we have the beer for you. 27 Broadway St., Toledo, OH; (419) 243-1300 www.mbaybrew.com Lighthouses • Marblehead Lighthouse State Park Marblehead Lighthouse is one of Lake Erie’s best known and most-photographed landmarks. The lighthouse rests on the Marblehead Peninsula, a rock headland of Columbus Limestone that juts into Lake Erie. The grounds surrounding the lighthouse offer excellent picnicking opportunities with views of Lake Erie. 110 Lighthouse Dr., Marblehead, OH 43440; (419) 734-4424 www.parks.ohiodnr.gov/marbleheadlighthouse.com • Cedar Point Lighthouse This 38-ft. lighthouse was built in 1862. The light, which was used for navigation until 1909, is located atop the lighthouse keeper’s six-room limestone home at the tip of the Cedar Point peninsula. It can be viewed up Continued on page 53

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Fun Places to Visit The Toledo Harbor Lighthouse. (Press photo by Ken Grosjean) Continued from page 52

close from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. A causeway toll/parking fee is required to travel around the Cedar Point peninsula. 1 Cedar Point Dr., Sandusky, OH 44870; (419) 627-2350 www.cedarpoint.com • Huron Lighthouse & Fishing Pier The Huron Lighthouse is maintained by the United States Federal Government. The lighthouse is not open for tours. However, visitors can walk the pier for close-up views. The pier is also a great shing and birding spot year-round. N. Main St., Huron, OH 44839; (419) 433-8487 www.cityofhuron.org • South Bass Island Lighthouse Visitors have the opportunity to tour the historic lighthouse and grounds and also learn more about the other available tours and facilities operated by Ohio Sea Grant. 2360 Langram Rd., Put-in-Bay, OH 43456; (419) 285-1800 www.ohioseagrant.osu.edu/visit/ south-bass-lighthouse • Vermilion Lighthouse The Vermilion Lighthouse is a replica of the original lighthouse that was later moved to Lake Ontario. Known as the “Town of Sea Captains,” Vermilion was without a lighthouse for 63 years. The lighthouse is located next to Main Street Beach. Visitors can walk up to, but not enter the lighthouse. 480 Main St., Vermilion, OH 44089; (440) 204-2400 www.vermilionoh.us/ • Port Clinton Lighthouse Recently restored and relocated to Waterworks Park, this historic lighthouse features a wooden spiral staircase to the lantern room where visitors can view a fully-functioning fth-order Fresnel lens before walking out onto the gallery deck for a spectacular view . At Waterworks Park, E Perry St. (SR

163), Port Clinton, OH 43452; (419) 797-2504 www.portclintonlighthouse.org • West Sister Island Lighthouse Located on West Sister Island, roughly midway between Toledo and Put-inBay and eight miles from shore, West Sister Island Lighthouse is still an active aid to navigation, and it is among the oldest lighthouses to survive on the Great Lakes. The island is not open to the public and is best seen by private or chartered boat. www.lighthousefriends.com • Green Island Lighthouse In 1961, the federal government transferred the lighthouse property to the State of Ohio, and the entire island eventually became a wildlife refuge. In 1974, a re decimated the old limestone lighthouse. A distant view of the island and skeletal lighthouse can be seen from ferries to South Bass Island and private boat. The island is off-limits to people and is now a bird sanctuary. www.lighthousefriends.com • Toledo Harbor Lighthouse This Romanesque style lighthouse is one of the most unusual overlooking the Great Lakes. It is located about ve miles north of the Lake Erie shoreline and can be best seen from the shores of Maumee Bay State Park on a clear day, but best experienced by boat. Maumee Bay State Park, 1400 State Park Rd., Oregon, OH; (419) 836-7758 www.toledoharborlighthouse.org Historical/Museums • Harbor View Historical Museum Located in the historical neighborhood of Harbor View in Oregon, the Harbor View Historical Society & Museum continues to attract visitors from across the country. The Historical Complex offers a glimpse of the War of 1812 and the Battle of Lake Erie. Due to popular interest, the cannons from the 2003 movie, “Master and Commander: Far

2018

Side of the World” starring Russell Crowe, have been continued for another season. 2083 Autokee St, Oregon 419-691-1517, HVHS.inc@gmail.com • Brandville School Built in 1882, the historic Brandville School has been restored and is now part of the Oregon-Jerusalem Historical Society complex. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1994. Brandville School houses artifacts from Native Americans who lived in the Great Black Swamp area. There is also a military room with artifacts from all the major conicts in which the United States has been involved, dating from 1812 to the present. No charge; donations accepted. 1133 Grasser St., Oregon 419-693-7052, www.ojhs.org • Edison Birthplace Visit the early boyhood home of Thomas Edison in Milan, Ohio. Edison Birthplace museum features a collection of rare early inventions, documents, and family mementos. 9 N. Edison Dr., Milan, OH 44846; (419) 499-2135 www.tomedison.org • Cooke-Dorn House Historic Site The city of Sandusky is known for its collection of limestone buildings, including this Greek revival. The threestory mansion features a ruby and cranberry glass collection, antique furnishings, greenhouse, and souvenirs. Free admission. 1415 Columbus Ave., Sandusky, OH 44870; (419) 627-0640 www.oldhouseguild.org • Follett House Museum Experience Sandusky’s history from before the War of 1812, through the Civil War era, and to the present at the Follett House Museum. Four oors of exhibits include business and industry, Johnson’s Island Prison information and artifacts, and more. Free admission. 404 Wayne St.; Sandusky, OH 44870; (419) 625-3834, ext. 6211 www.sandusky.lib.oh.us/follett. house.com • Historic Lyme Village Experience the past as you tour the 16 buildings of this 19th-century village. Tours of Historic Lyme Village include an 1880s Victorian mansion, an 1836 farm home, log homes, barns, a one-room school, a general store, and more. 5001 SR 4, Bellevue, OH 44811; (419) 483-4949 www.lymevillage.org • Johnson’s Island Confederate Ofcers Prison Cemetery This historic cemetery is the nal resting place of more than 200 of the 9,000 Confederate soldiers once imprisoned here. A causeway toll is required to Continued on page 54

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Fun Places to Visit The National Museum of the Great Lakes. (Press photo by Ken Grosjean) Continued from page 53

visit the cemetery/island. Gaydos Dr., Marblehead, OH 43440; (419) 625-2454 www.johnsonsisland.org • Perry’s Victory and Peace Memorial Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial was established to honor those who fought in the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812 and to celebrate the long-lasting peace between Britain, Canada, and the U.S. The memorial, a Doric column, rising 352 feet over Lake Erie, is situated ve miles from the longest undefended border in the world. 93 Delaware Ave., Put-in-Bay, OH 43456; (419) 285-2184 www.nps.gov/pevi/index.htm • Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums The Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library and Museums houses 19th U.S. President Rutherford B. Hayes’ Victorian mansion, the newly-renovated museum, presidential library, tomb, and a mile of paved walking trails through his 25-acre wooded estate, known as Spiegel Grove. Spiegel Grove, Fremont, OH 43420; (419) 332-2081 www.rbhayes.org • Maritime Museum of Sandusky Dive into the rich maritime history of the Sandusky Bay area at the Maritime Museum of Sandusky. Through interactive exhibits and educational programs the whole family can have a boatload of fun learning about ice harvesting, shipwrecks, boat building, the wetlands, Sandusky’s Underground Railroad history, and more. 125 Meigs St., Sandusky, OH 44870; (419) 624-0274 www.sanduskymaritime.org • Merry-Go-Round Museum Take a ride into the past on the antique carousel at The Merry-Go-Round Museum. This year’s exhibit is “Into

the Wild.” Wood-carving demonstrations, a carousel-themed gift shop, and guided tours give visitors an indepth look at the artistry of wooden sculptures on the surviving historic merry-go-rounds. 301 Jackson St. (US 6), Sandusky, OH 44870; (419) 626-6111 www.merrygoroundmuseum.org • Milan Museum Visitors to Milan Museum learn a history rich in progress and creativity along with the important contributions made in Milan. Milestones in invention and inventors, a renowned glass collection, and folk art displays are seen throughout the many historical buildings, artifacts and galleries. 10 Edison Dr. (off SR 113), Milan, OH 44846; (419) 499-2968 www.milanhistory.org • Liberty Aviation Museum Liberty Aviation Museum showcases operational, historical aircraft and vehicles including “Georgie’s Gal,” a WWII B-25 Mitchell Bomber, a U.S. Navy WWII TBM Avenger, PT-boat, and more. Witness the restoration of a 1929 Ford Tri-Motor and dine in the 1950s-era themed Tin Goose Diner. 3515 E. State Road, Port Clinton, OH 43452; (419) 732-0234 www.libertyaviationmuseum.org • Fort Meigs: Ohio War of 1812 Battleeld Fort Meig’s War of 1812 battleeld in Perrysburg, features a reconstructed fort and museum. A replica of America’s largest walled fort, Fort Meigs offers several re-enactments featuring soldiers in period costumes throughout the year. 29100 W. River Rd., Perrysburg, OH; (419) 874-4121 www.fortmeigs.org • Canal Experience Drift back in time at the Canal Experience and discover what life was like along the Miami and Erie Canal in 1876. Visitors can experience what canal life was like aboard The Volunteer,

a reproduction of a mule-drawn canal boat. Other highlights include a visit to Isaac Ludwig Mill, Scenic Providence Dam and Lock #44, one of the last functioning limestone locks. Providence Metropark, 13827 S. River Rd., Grand Rapids, OH; (419) 4079700 www.metroparkstoledo.com • Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Cathedral Thousands have been inspired by the graceful beauty of its piers and arches, by the richly decorated nave ceiling with scenes from the Old Testament, the half-domed apse embellished by frescoes in the Keim process, and by one of its most striking gems, the Rose Window, which sparkles and radiates in the changing light of the sun. 2535 Collingwood Blvd., Toledo, OH; (419) 244-9575 www.rosarycathedral.org • Wildwood Manor House Wildwood Metropark is home to the estate once owned by Robert Stranahan, founder of Champion Spark Plug. Surrounded by natural habit, the stately home, now called the Manor House, played important roles in Toledo’s history. The house, crafted in a Georgian colonial style, is open for free tours. Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave., Toledo, OH; (419) 407-9700 www.metroparkstoledo.com • Toledo Museum of Art Discover treasures ranging from ancient Egyptian pieces to contemporary art, including glass, sculpture, European and American painting, African and Asian art, graphic arts and decorative arts. Don’t miss the SPECIAL EXHIBITION especially for birders, Before Audubon: Alexander Wilson’s Birds of the United States now on display. 2445 Monroe St., Toledo, OH; (419) 255-8000 or (800) 644-6862 www.toledomuseum.org • Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion Opened in 2006, the postmodern Glass Pavilion is home to TMA’s worldrenowned glass collection, featuring more than 5,000 works of art from ancient to contemporary times. 2445 Monroe St., Toledo, OH; (419) 255-8000 or (800) 644-6862 www.toledomuseum.org • National Museum of the Great Lakes Located at the base of the Veterans Glass City Skyway Bridge in Toledo, the National Museum of the Great Lakes features more than 500 photographs, 250 artifacts, 45 interactive exhibits; also tour the 617-foot iron ore freighter that tell the awe-inspiring history of the Great Lakes and provide a unique destination for all ages. Continued on page 55

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Fun Places to Visit Maumee Bay State Park. (Press photo by Ken Grosjean) Continued from page 54

1701 Front St., Toledo, OH; 419-2145000 www.inlandseas.org Islands • Kelleys Island The largest of Ohio’s Lake Erie Islands is dominated by natural areas. It appeals to nature and bird lovers as well as those looking for a relaxing, quiet getaway. Rent a golf cart or bicycle and encounter the world’s largest, most spectacular glacial scoring, nd Native American pictographs carved into a limestone boulder, hike trails at the state park or build fairytale sandcastles at the beach. Downtown is the heart of the island where gift stores, miniature golf, restaurants, and live entertainment bring rhythm to the island pace. • South Bass Island (Put-in-Bay) Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island has been an ideal stopping point for boaters ever since Native Americans “put in at the bay” during their many journeys across Lake Erie. Enjoy the small town quality, Victorian Era buildings and quaintness of this island resort. Put-in-Bay offers a wide variety of activities for the entire family. Most tour the island by bicycle or golf cart and take in attractions including: Perry’s Monument, museums, a buttery house, miniature golf, cave tours, and much more. When the sun goes down the village of Put-in-Bay lights up with exciting nightlife; dozens of restaurants and pubs. • Middle Bass Island Neighboring both Kelleys Island and South Bass Island, Middle Bass Island blends nature and serenity on this secluded island getaway. Originally named Ile de Fleurs, or Island of Flowers, visitors can nd beautiful lake views, beaches, marinas, a historic district, and an Ohio state park. The historic Lonz Winery property reopened in 2017 as part of Middle Bass Island State Park. Nature Areas • East Harbor State Park Located on the shores of Lake Erie,

East Harbor State Park has unlimited opportunities for outdoor recreation. Boating, shing, swimming, disc golf, picnics, camping and 11 miles of hiking trails are popular while nature enthusiasts will enjoy the abundance of waterfowl, shorebirds, and other species of wildlife found in the park’s scenic wetlands. 1169 N. Buck Rd. (SR 269), Marblehead, OH 43440; (419) 7344424 ext. 2 www.parks.ohiodnr.gov/eastharbor • Sheldon Marsh Nature Preserve This waterfront area, with its contiguous wetlands, comprises some of the last remaining undeveloped stretches of shoreline in the Sandusky Bay region. Known to attract nearly 300 bird species and beautiful wildowers, spring is one of the best times to visit. Summer nds great blue herons, red tail hawks, woodcocks, great horned owls, wood ducks, and numerous songbirds. 2715 Cleveland Rd. W (US 6), Huron, OH 44839; (866) 644-6727 www.naturepreserves.ohiodnr.gov/ sheldonmarsh • Old Woman Creek State Nature Preserve & Research Reserve This 573-acre reserve is one of Ohio’s best remaining examples of a natural estuary. As a transition zone between land and Lake Erie, Old Woman Creek brings together many kinds of life. Birds, mammals, sh, reptiles, amphibians, and more are drawn here. 2514 Cleveland Rd. E, Huron, OH 44839; (419) 433-4601 www.wildlife.ohiodnr.gov/oldwomancreek • Scheeff East Point Nature Preserve Located on Put-in-Bay in Lake Erie, Scheeff East Point Nature Preserve is a nine-acre preserve with lakefront on three sides. This unique setting offers opportunities for spotting waterfowl, shorebirds and migratory songbirds. Eastern tip of East Point Rd., Put-inBay, OH 43456; (419) 285-4772 www.lakeerieislandsconservancy.org • North Pond State Nature Preserve North Pond State Nature Preserve

2018

contains a variety of rare and endangered plants and animals. Consisting of approximately 30 acres of pristine wetlands with the estuary leading into Lake Erie at the North Bay. The pond is also home to a diverse bird population and migration area. The North Pond represents one of the best natural marshes in Ohio’s western Lake Erie basin. Ward St., Kelleys Island, OH 43438; (866) 644-6727 www.naturepreserves.ohiodnr.gov/ northpond • East Sandusky Bay MetroPark East Sandusky Bay MetroPark is the umbrella name of a group of neighboring parks: Joseph Steinen Wildlife Area, Community Foundation Preserve at Eagle Point, Putman Marsh Preserve, and Wyandot Wetland Meadows Preserve. They give visitors an opportunity to appreciate and enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Erie and particularly East Sandusky Bay. 3819 Cleveland Rd. (US 6), Sandusky, OH 44870; (419) 625-7783 www.eriemetroparks.org • Toledo Botanical Garden A museum for plants, Toledo Botanical Garden offers visitors the opportunity to share, discover and enjoy nature’s beauty. With more than 60 acres of display gardens and relevant plant collections, TBG is full of beauty, tranquility and opportunities for exploration and reection. Notable gardens include shade, perennial, English border, aquatic, herb, rose, among others. 5403 Elmer Dr., Toledo, OH; (419) 536-5566 www.toledogarden.org • The Buttery House The Buttery House contains over 1,000 butteries with many different species from North & South America and Asia. The facility was built with the idea of developing beautiful gardens in a controlled environment to exhibit butteries to the general public. It’s an opportunity to learn about the life cycle of the buttery. Open May-Oct. 11455 Obee Rd., Whitehouse, OH; 419-877-2733 buttery-house.com • Oak Openings Metropark Featuring more than 50 miles of multipurpose trails (including horse trails), camping and a Window on Wildlife. Oak Openings is a birder’s paradise. It is the nesting place of bluebirds, indigo buntings, whippoorwills, lark sparrows and many other species, as well as an excellent location to see migrating warblers in the spring. 4139 Girdham Rd., Swanton, OH; (419) 407-9700 www.metroparkstoledo.com • Pearson Metropark About three miles of trails criscross this 624-acre park that often provide Continued on page 56

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

Fun Places to Visit African Safari Wildlife Park. (Press photo by Ken Grosjean) Continued from page 55

remarkable access to the best birding anywhere. Millions of migrating birds cross Lake Erie each spring and fall, often massing on the shore when conditions for crossing are unfavorable. Forest birds nest here in the summer and the feeding station at the Nature Center attracts ocks of birds for the winter. 761 Lallendorf Rd., Oregon, OH; (419) 407-9700 www.metroparkstoledo.com • Maumee Bay State Park Offers 1,336 acres of not only the nest of recreational facilities in the Midwest, but also a unique natural environment created by the convergence of the land and Lake Erie. 1400 State Park Rd., Oregon, OH; (419) 836-7758 www.parks.ohiodnr.gov/maumeebay • Middlegrounds Metropark Middlegrounds, located in downtown Toledo, includes a half-mile of river frontage that begins at the Anthony Wayne Bridge and extends southwest of Martin Luther King Plaza. The urban, 28-acre greenspace offers a 1.5mile meandering walk/bike path and tranquil views of the Maumee River. 111 Ottawa St., Toledo, OH; (419) 4079700 www.metroparkstoledo.com • Sandusky County Park District 10 facilities including the 93-acre Wolf Creek Park, 160-acre Blue Heron Reserve, 310-acre Creek Bend Farm and others. White Star Park located south of Gibsonburg on SR 300 has a quarry up to 40 feet deep that is used by scuba divers as well as for nonpower boating and shing, a beach and a campground. 1-888-200-5577 (419) 334-4495 www.lovemyparks.com • Wildwood Preserve Metropark The 493-acre park is the former estate of Toledo’s Stranahan family. Surrounded by natural habitat, the stately home, now called the Manor House, played important roles in Toledo history. Wildwood is home to many diverse and fascinating plants

and animals. In the spring, it is a breeding site for ground-nesting birds such as rufous-sided towhees, and American woodcock. 5100 W. Central Ave., Toledo, OH; (419) 407-9700 www.metroparkstoledo.com Attractions • African Safari Wildlife Park The Midwest’s only drive-thru safari, African Safari is home to giraffe, zebra, and so much more! Get ready for a wild time feeding exotic animals from your vehicle. Stop by the Walk Thru Safari to learn about the animals during daily education programs, included with admission. 267 Lightner Rd. (off SR 163), Port Clinton, OH 43452; (419) 732-3606 www.africansafariwildlifepark.com • Cedar Point Cedar Point is the destination for thrills and has been named the “Best Amusement Park in the USA” in the USA Today 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards. Cedar Point is home to 71 amazing rides, including 18 worldclass roller coasters. 1 Cedar Point Drive, Sandusky, OH 44870; (419) 627-2350 www.cedarpoint.com • Kalahari Resorts & Conventions Experience the time of your life with everything under one roof. Indoor body boarding 365 days a year in 86 degree temperatures, or take on the Zip Coaster uphill water roller coaster. 7000 Kalahari Dr. (off US 250), Sandusky, OH 44870; (419) 433-7200 www.kalahariresorts.com • Sorrowful Mother Shrine Sorrowful Mother Shrine is a Catholic shrine located on 120 acres with over 40 points of interest including Outdoor Stations of the Cross with newly painted walking paths through the woods, shrine, and grottos. 4106 SR 269, Bellevue, OH 44811; (419) 483-3435 www.sorrowfulmothershrine.org • Ghostly Manor Thrill Center This multi-attraction, family enter-

tainment center was featured on The Travel Channel’s “Best Places I’ve Ever Been,” and Forbes Top 10 haunted attractions, and USA Today’s Top 20 Haunted Houses. Experience Ohio’s fastest virtual motion theatre; a oneof-a-kind interactive 3D, black light miniature golf journey; and more! 3319 Milan Rd (US 250), Sandusky, OH 44870; (419) 626-4467 www.ghostlymanor.com • Lagoon Deer Park Lagoon Deer Park is a walk-thru petting zoo with over 200 animals, gift shop, and stocked shing lakes. 1502 Martins Point Rd. (off SR 269), Sandusky, OH 44870; (419) 684-6701 www.lagoondeerparkohio.com • Sandusky Segwave Sandusky Segwave is conveniently located in downtown Sandusky near the historic Sandusky State Theatre overlooking Schade-Mylander Plaza. Seasonal daily tours ride by city landmarks and historic places. 107 Columbus Ave, Sandusky, OH 44870; (419) 734-9283 www.sanduskysegwave.com • Schedel Arboretum & Gardens Schedel Arboretum and Gardens is a 17-acre hidden treasure with unparalleled beauty and tranquility. The gardens include a unique Japanese garden, a kitchen garden with more than 80 varieties of ornamental hot peppers, a bonsai collection, water gardens, perennial gardens, and dozens of gardens. 19255 W. Portage River S Rd., Elmore, OH 43416; (419) 862-3182 www.schedel-gardens.org • Buttery House The Buttery House at Put-in-Bay allows you to walk among hundreds of butteries imported from Malaysia and Costa Rica in the fully-enclosed lush, tropical greenhouse. Learn about the life span of butteries. 979 Catawba Ave., Put-in-Bay, OH 43456; (419) 285-2446 • Toledo Zoo & Aquarium The Toledo Zoo, voted a top familyfriendly destination and number-one zoo in the nation, boasts over 10,000 mammals, sh, reptiles, amphibians, birds and invertebrates representing over 750 species. Stop by the Zoo and enjoy rare birds from around the world in the award-winning Aviary which features some of the most sought-after bird species. 2 Hippo Way, Toledo, OH; (419) 3855721 www.toledozoo.org • Hollywood Casino Toledo Located minutes from downtown Toledo, discover a world of gaming and entertainment. 1968 Miami St., Toledo, OH www.hollywoodcasinotoledo.com

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

Bayview Bed & Breakfast and Tea Cottage

GO BIRDING. Experience the beauty & natural therapy of nature in Ohio whilst enjoying maximum comfort and great amenities. An ideal location for birdwatching in the Midwest, use code UY7 for special rate upon booking. Courtyard Toledo Rossford/Perrysburg 9789 Clark Drive Rossford, OH 43460 419-872-5636 ToledoRossfordCourtyard.com

Make room for a little fun

™

2018

Welcome to Oregon Ohio

Quiet • Country • Elegance Bayview B & B is an historic home situated on 20 acres and located adjacent to Maumee Bay State Park. On the shores of Lake Erie. Come and enjoy a blend of fine furnishings, antiques and whimsical treasures. Stroll the park like grounds, visit our unique perennial gardens or watch the clouds go by in the reflection of the pond. Pamper yourself in one of our six private rooms featuring fine linens, televisions and private baths. •Smoke-Free Environment •Park like setting on 20 Acres •Fresh Baked Goods & Beverages •No Children or Pets Please •Gift Certificates

Hosts Dee and Jim Davies 7250 Cedar Point Rd., Oregon, OH 43618 419-836-1444 • bayviewbandb.com

GOOD TIMES

GREAT

FOOD

A TOLEDO TRADITION Tony Packo's Cafe (West Side) 5827 Monroe St. Sylvania, OH 43560 Maumee Packo's Express 1399 Conant St. Maumee, OH 43537

Packo's at the Park (Downtown) 7 South Superior St. Toledo, OH 43602

West Toledo Express 3348 Secor Rd. Toledo, OH 43606

For additional information visit www.tonypackos.com Catering Services and Banquet Facilities Available � .ii,

�

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

The stopover habitat in the Lake Erie Marsh Region is many things to many different birds and many different people. It’s an economic boon for the Lakeshore communities.

©Brian Zwiebel

It’s a place where life, joy, and beauty gather in epic proportions. Each spring, visiting birders spend $40 million in NW Ohio. It’s a great place to raise your kids.

It’s home to more nesting pairs of Bald Eagles than anywhere else in the lower 48 states.

THE LAKE ERIE SHORELINE IS NOT...

Adorable Black Tern nestlings banded in the Metzger Marsh Wildlife Area.

These places are for the birds...NOT for wind turbines! However, single turbines are being installed in Globally Important Bird Areas in northwest Ohio with NO WILDLIFE REVIEW WHATSOEVER.

...a place for these.

Help Black Swamp Bird Observatory protect the Globally Important Bird Areas of Northwest Ohio from poorly-sited wind turbines. Get involved. Contact local, regional, and government officials. Help us be a voice for the birds!

Learn more at: bsbo.org/responsible-wind-energy

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

ABC supports Black Swamp Bird Observatory’s efforts to protect the Globally Important Bird Area of northwest Ohio from poorly sited wind energy.

American Bird Conservancy answers some common questions about wind energy development and its impact on the environment, particularly birds. Doesn’t climate change pose a bigger threat to birds than wind turbines? Global climate change is something that we should all be concerned about, but that does not justify putting large numbers of wind turbines in sensitive areas for birds or failing to mitigate their impacts. When it comes to wind energy, siting is everything. Much of the conflict between wind energy development and wildlife could be solved through better siting and mitigation, so why continue putting large, bird-killing wind energy facilities where there are major concentrations of migrating or breeding birds or near other sensitive habitats? Our nation’s birds should not be collateral damage in our battle against climate change. Don’t other things like window collisions and cats kill more birds than wind turbines? There are many human-caused reasons for bird mortality that dwarf the impacts of wind turbines and their associated infrastructure; these include freeroaming domestic cats, collisions with glass windows, and pesticides. But the impact of wind turbines and their associated infrastructure is far from trivial. The losses from all sources of mortality are cumulative, and each needs to be addressed.

Photo by Lance Bellers, Shutterstock

Many of our most common bird species are in decline, while threatened and endangered species are at even greater risk, since the loss of even a few can impact an entire population.

Wind Energy ad_Biggest Week 2018.indd 1

Where’s the data to prove that wind turbines kill birds? There have been three major peer-reviewed studies that have estimated bird and bat mortality from wind turbines in the United States; these estimated losses number a halfmillion or more birds annually. Future losses are predicted to increase to millions as more turbines and power lines are built. What can be done to improve the situation? We must strengthen state laws and replace voluntary federal guidelines for wind energy development with mandatory guidelines that lead to proper siting, mitigation, and compensation for unavoidable losses. Our nation’s birds (and bats) do not belong to wind energy companies; they belong to the American people and are held in trust for this and future generations. It is the state and federal wildlife agencies’ job to protect them in the face of rampant energy development. Another important step would be for the federal government to better enforce our nation’s wildlife protection laws, including the Endangered Species Act, Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, and Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Finally, we need improved transparency to truly assess the magnitude of this growing challenge to bird conservation. Data collection methods for wind energy developments have not been standardized; further, most data are collected by paid consultants and reported through the industry, a clear conflict of interest. In most places, the data are considered secret and are not shared with the public. This needs to change.

For more information: abcbirds.org/program/ wind-energy-and-birds/

3/8/2018 5:49:25 PM

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

MAGEE MARSH BOARDWALK CODE OF ETHICS: GUIDELINES TO ENHANCE THE VISITOR’S EXPERIENCE AND PROTECT THE RESOURCE (As developed by Black Swamp Bird Observatory and the Ohio Division of Wildlife)

The boardwalk at Magee Marsh Wildlife Area has become an iconic birding destination. Birders from around the world consider it one of the best places in the Western Hemisphere to experience the spring migration of songbirds. The area of wooded habitat along Lake Erie that the mile-long boardwalk meanders through is a concentration point for birds as they pause to rest and feed before crossing the Lake. And because the birding is so sensational, the boardwalk can become quite crowded at times. Black Swamp Bird Observatory, in conjunction with Ohio Division of Wildlife and local birders and photographers, has developed a simple Boardwalk Code of Ethics to help ensure that your time on these bodacious birding boards is an enjoyable experience. Please note that since Magee Marsh is a state wildlife area, there are some regulations governing activities that are punishable by law. We list a few particularly important examples below. The remaining information we offer simply as suggestions to make your experience a positive one and to ensure that the birds and the habitat are respected and protected.

ALL VISITORS MUST ADHERE TO THE RULES ESTABLISHED BY OHIO DIVISION OF WILDLIFE. FOR EXAMPLE: 

Littering is prohibited. There are NO TRASH RECEPTACLES near the boardwalk, so the Pack In - Pack Out rule applies.



To injure, remove, deface, damage, or destroy any tree or plant on state property is prohibited.



No soliciting of any kind without a written permit from the Ohio Division of Wildlife.



Other than assistance animals, pets are not allowed on the boardwalk.



Scattering or placing feed capable of luring, enticing, or attracting birds is prohibited.



Camping, swimming, and fires in the area is prohibited.



REPORT WILDLIFE VIOLATIONS 1-800-Wildlife and 1-800-Poacher



Magee Marsh is closed to the public from 8pm to 6am—Sept 1 to May1, and from 10pm to 6am—May 2 to Aug 31.



For a full list of wildlife area regulations, visit the Ohio Division of Wildlife website, here: http://wildlife.ohiodnr.gov/public-hunting-fishing-wildlife-viewing-areas/wildlife-area-laws

GENERAL GUIDELINES 

For the enjoyment of others, keep voices and noises to a minimum including turning cell phones off or to vibrate.



Respect the habitat and protect the resource by staying on the boardwalk and trails at all times.



For the safety and comfort of others, please don’t block the boardwalk in any way.



Be aware of your personal space and how it impacts others (i.e. backpacks, tripods, strollers, etc.).



Be mindful of those around you and allow others to pass in congested areas.



Do not stand or sit on the railing of the boardwalk at any time.



Please be considerate of the experience of those around you and do not smoke.



Please keep in mind that whether birding, photographing, or just enjoying a walk on the boardwalk during migration, we are all there for the same ultimate reason. Please be respectful of one another, enjoy the birds and company, and rejoice that there are so many people with varied interests who care for nature.



We encourage all visitors to purchase an Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp (OWLS). Proceeds from the sale of the stamp help generate funding for wildlife diversity in Ohio. OWLS are available for purchase at Black Swamp Bird Observatory and the Sportsman's Migratory Bird Center (both located at Magee Marsh Wildlife Area). You may also purchase the stamp online at www.bsbo.org

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

BIRDING & PHOTOGRAPHY ETIQUETTE 

The #1 complaint we receive about the Magee Boardwalk experience is the use of tripods. Tripods can be a challenge for everyone when the boardwalk is crowded. During these times, we encourage the use of monopods, or photographing birds along the edge of the parking lot where bird photography can be really good! If you do use a tripod on the boardwalk, set up in such a way that you utilize the smallest area possible; try to avoid occupying more than ½ the width of the boardwalk.



Laser pointers: We discourage the use of laser pointers at all times.



Refrain from pishing, squeaking, using playback recordings, and other bird-attracting methods as they can interfere with the birds’ natural behaviors. They're not likely to be effective anyway: migrants passing through an area tend to be less responsive to such sounds, while resident birds at a popular spot like Magee have become habituated and mostly ignore these sounds.



This is mentioned in the first section under state regulations, but worth repeating: Do not alter the habitat in any way (breaking branches, pulling vegetation, etc.) in order to get a better view or photo of a bird, bird nest, etc.



Share the view: Once you see the bird, move on and allow others to enjoy it.



When viewing a bird, please step as close as possible to the railing on the side the bird is on to allow others to pass safely behind you.



Whenever possible, avoid walking in front of someone who’s looking through optics or camera.



Flash photography: In areas where there are crowds of people and the birds are close, we discourage the use of flash photography on the boardwalk.



Exercise patience with beginners. The boardwalk attracts many new birders who may not know basic birding etiquette. All of these people represent potential new support for bird conservation, so it's very important to treat them with patience and courtesy.

ADDITIONAL SUGGESTIONS 

Restrooms: It’s a long way to the other end of the boardwalk, and the birding can be so good that hours will pass before you know it. To ensure your comfort and happiness, we encourage use of the portable toilets before entering the boardwalk.



Food: While there are many wonderful restaurants in the area, the boardwalk is a fair distance from them, so packing a picnic lunch can be a good option.



Carry water with you at all times.



On average, spring migration in northwest Ohio happens before the hatch of biting insects, so repellent is typically not necessary.



The Magee boardwalk is in a fairly remote location, at least 35 minutes from the nearest hospital. It's a good idea to carry a small first-aid kit when birding the area.



In case of an emergency, dial 911.

Purchase your Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp and Federal Duck Stamp at Black Swamp Bird Observatory, the Sportsman’s Migratory Bird Center, or online at www.bsbo.org

Except for select weekends, the entrance road is closed past the Sportsmen’s Migratory Bird Center from early fall thru mid-December to allow for controlled hunting. Check wildohio.gov or bsbo.org before visiting.

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

Blackberry Corner Tavern The

5975 N. Elliston Rd. • Martin, OH

Special Bird Week Hours Mon.-Fri. 10am-10pm Sat. 6am-10pm • Sun. 6am-9pm

Welcome Birders! Discover the fun of riding a Segway through Historic Downtown Sandusky VOTED #1 Tour by Trip Advisor

Breakfast Buffet Sun. 8am-Noon Beer • Wine • Sandwiches Soups • Pies • Pizza Made-to-Order

Reserve Tours Online 1 hr. - $39.95/person 2 hr. - $65.00/person (all inclusive)

419-836-8377 Owner: Brenda Lowe

Good Drinks • Good Food • Good Times Eat-In or Carryout • Catering Available • Homemade Desserts

4016 E. Harbor Rd. 419-732-8857 In the Bassett’s Plaza

Bring this ad & save $5.00/person! (up to 6 people)

Welcome Birders!

Fresh Baked Waffles

with or without Ice Cream!

$1.00 OFF! NEW! Expires 5/18/18 $1.00 Off Large Milkshakes Expires 5/18/18

SanduskySegwave.com • 419-SEGWAVE 107 Columbus Ave., Sandusky OH

ince 1976, Victor Emanuel Nature Tours has conducted birding & wildlife tours worldwide, plus birding, wildlife & natural history cruises accompanied by our expert lecturers and renowned leaders. Some key reasons to travel with us: leaders living “on the spot” in Brazil, • Superb South Africa, Venezuela, Ecuador, Australia, and all over the United States, with all of the local knowledge at their ﬁngertips

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VICTOR EMANUEL Sign up for our email newsletter, the VENTflash, NATURE for birding news, discounts, and special offers. TOURS Harpy Eagle ©David Tipling

•

CST 2014998-50

www.ventbird.com | 800.328.VENT (8368) | 512.328.5221 | info@ventbird.com

  

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

Stay in Comfort!

2018

• Indoor Pool & Hot Tub • Complimentary Hot Breakfast • FREE High Speed Internet Access • Kitchenette/Jacuzzi Suites • In-Room Coffee Pot/Hair Dryer/Iron/Safe

Ask about our Special Rate for

“the Biggest Week in American Birding.” www.choicehotels.com/ohio/fremont/comfort-inn-hotels/oh224

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THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

BLACK SWAMP BIRDS & BUSINESS ALLIANCE PROGRAM BSBO developed the Birds & Business Alliance program to raise awareness among local businesses of birding tourism in the area, and provide business owners with valuable information on offering quality services for the birding audience. The Alliance is also an important component of BSBO’s Conservation Business plan, creating a network that allows us to communicate birding and conservation information to Alliance members. The benefit to Alliance members is promotion of their business directly to the world-wide birding audience. There is a small annual fee to participate, and we’ve made a strong effort to make the program affordable—even for small businesses.

We encourage you to patronize the following businesses that support the Observatory. Please tell them that BSBO referred you and thank them for their support!

HOTELS/B&B’S/ CAMPGROUNDS Oak Harbor Area Camp Sabroske Magee East Marina Summer Break Charters & Lodging

Port Clinton Area America's Best Value Inn Catawba Island Club East Harbor State Park Five Bells Inn Four Seasons Bed & Breakfast at Catawba Point Island House Hotel Lake Erie Fishing Adventures Lodge Lighthouse Lodge McKenna'a Inn Our Guest Inn & Suites Red Fern Inn & Rocky Point Winery Rock Ledge Inn Cottages Sunnyside Tower Bed & Breakfast The Island House Hotel The Marshall Inn Bed & Breakfast Twitchell Cottage Victorian Inn Bed & Breakfast

Sandusky Area

Curtice Area

Port Clinton Area

Black Swamp Beds & Birds Lake Erie Lodge

Bassett's Market Catawba Island Brewing Co. Catawba Island Club Crosswinds Restaurant & Bar McCarthy's Restaurant & Pub Travelers Bar & Grill

Oregon Area Hampton Inn (Toledo/Oregon) Holiday Inn Express Maumee Bay Lodge & Conference Center Maumee Bay State Park

Curtice Area

Toledo Area

Blackberry Corner Tavern Crazy Lady Saloon DG's Ice Cream Jack's Superette

Courtyard by Marriott (Toledo/Rossford) Residence Inn by Marriott

CHAMBERS & VISITORS’ BUREAU

AREA DINING & FOODMARTS

Oak Harbor Area Chamber of Commerce Marblehead Peninsula Chamber of Commerce Destination Toledo Lake Erie Shores & Islands Eastern Maumee Bay Chamber of Commerce Port Clinton Chamber of Commerce Rossford CVB Sandusky County CVB Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce

Oak Harbor Area Barnside Creamery Evolve Riverfront Café Kozy Corners Magee East Marina General Store

Oregon Area Maumee Bay General Store Maumee Bay Lodge Oregon Inn On Bayshore

Millsite Lodge To learn how your business can be part of our Alliance, visit www.bsbo.org.

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

We encourage you to patronize the following businesses that support the Observatory. Please tell them that BSBO referred you and thank them for their support!

TRANSPORTATION

BIRDING TRAVEL

Port Clinton Area

Birding Africa Birding Ecotours BRANT Canopy Family Cheepers, Birding on a Budget Greg Miller Birding Naturally Avian Nature is Awesome Sabrewing Nature Tours Victor Emanuel Nature Tours Ventures Birding Tours Wildside Nature Tours

Erie Shores Chiropractic WPCR & WPIB Radio

PUBLICATIONS

Toledo Area

Jet Express Miller Boat Line

SHOPPING Oak Harbor Area Imagine Metal Arts Wistinghausen Florist

Port Clinton Area Bassett's Market Great Lakes Popcorn Co. Green's Pharmacy

Oregon Area Maumee Bay General Store

Curtice Area Bench Farms Jack's Superette

Toledo Area

Wild Birds Unlimited

Vermillion Cheryl’s Fashion Boutique: The Alpaca Clothing Store

National Birds & Beans Coffee

Oregon Area Gladieux Home Center Maumee Bay Veterinary Hospital

Fremont Area Benchmark Prints

Gibsonburg Area J. Conklin Consulting

Birds & Blooms Magazines BirdWatching Magazine Kaufman Field Guides

Dotnet Technologies

NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

Hunt's Photo & Video Jordan Specialty Advertising

American Bird Conservancy Cornell Lab of Ornithology The Nature Conservancy

SERVICES Oak Harbor Area Lake Erie Tree Service Oak Harbor Dental Riverview Industries

National

SPORT OPTICS Time & Optics, Ltd. Canon Celestron Kowa Optics Leica Optics Nikon Opticron Swarovski Optik USA Vanguard Optics Zeiss Optics

To learn how your business can be part of our Alliance, visit www.bsbo.org.

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

Amish Pies

Good Home Cooking Daily Lunch & Dinner Specials $6.95 *Breakfast Specials *Toft’s Ice Cream

GRANNY'S KITCHEN 1105 Main St. Mon.-Sat. 7am -9pm Sun. 7am-2pm

We are here to serve you in one convenient location!

419-836-5027 • Sandwiches • Salad • Breakfast

419-836-4049

Open 24 hours/7 days

DEBIT CARDS

Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto

To all of our birding customers...

• Snacks • Pop • Beer • Ice • ATM • Ohio Lottery

Woodville 419-849-2203

• Pizza • Burgers • Hotdogs • Sandwiches Lake Erie Yellow PIZZA & KITCHEN Perch Sandwich or Basket 419-836-7151 Daily Lunch Specials

Joe’s

Located on the Corner of St. Rt. 2 & North Curtice (Approx. 2½ miles south of Maumee Bay State Park)

204 S. Main St. Genoa 419-855-8501 This year, 2018, marks the 160th anniversary of the apparitions of Our Lady at Lourdes, France. Many faith healings have occurred there. Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Genoa, Ohio features a replica of the Lourdes Grotto with statues of Mary and Bernadette. For a faith experience, come visit the Grotto and adjoining Stations of the Cross constructed of tufa from the Blue Hole in Castalia, Ohio. www.sb-oh.org/our-lady-of-lourdes/grotto

608 MAIN STREET IN GENOA OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (No Breakfast on Mondays) www.rayzcafe.com

1101 E. BAYVIEW DR. IN THE VILLAGE OF BAY VIEW OPENS AT 11AM FOR LUNCH AND DINNER 7 days a week throughout the year! www.rayzonthebay.com

15 Craft Beers • Great Pub Food Full Dinners include Fresh Lake Erie Perch!

Welcome Birders !

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

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A Fun Read Featuring an Aviary along Lake Erie’s Islands

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THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

Get Outside Yourself

Welcome Birders! Metroparks of the Toledo Area encourages you to explore 12,000 acres of natural beauty. Discover the Oak Openings Region, the Lake Erie wetlands, the mighty Maumee River and more here in the Warbler Capital.

MetroparksToledo.com

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

Howard Marsh boardwalk (Photo courtesy Metroparks Toledo)

Howard Marsh restores 1,000 acres of wetland habitat By Scott Carpenter Director of Public Relations Metroparks Toledo A new park near the Lake Erie shore will expand fishing, birding and paddling opportunities in a region of Ohio where outdoor enthusiasts celebrate spring holidays with walleye, warblers and watercraft. The biggest beneficiary of all, however, may be the lake itself. Howard Marsh Metropark, opening in late April, will also put Metroparks Toledo, the regional park district developing the nearly 1,000-acre project, a step closer to fulfilling its promise of a park within five miles of every home in the county. “It is the largest project we’ve ever undertaken, one of our most important projects from an ecological standpoint, and extremely timely for our region given the recent troubles we’ve experienced with Lake Erie,” Metroparks Toledo Executive Director Dave Zenk said. Half of the wetlands in the Great Lakes basin are gone. In western Lake Erie, where just 10 percent of the original 300,000 acres of wetland remain, every acre counts. Howard Marsh is the largest new wetland restoration project underway on the Great Lakes. The property, known historically as Howard Farms, is the last remaining large tract of land in the Western Lake Erie marsh region. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife has been interested in the property for more than 20 years, but was not able to come to terms with the owner. When Metroparks successfully negotiated an agreement in 2008, the Division of Wildlife contributed

half of the $6 million purchase price. Metroparks and the Division of Wildlife entered into a management agreement for fishing, hunting, trapping and wildlife recreation and conservation at the marsh. The other half of the purchase price was paid for with a $1.76 million grant from the Clean Ohio Fund Greenspace Conservation Program and $1.24 million from Metroparks. Converting Howard Farms into Howard Marsh required additional partnerships and funding. Metroparks contracted with Ducks Unlimited, the international wetlands conservation organization, to design the wetland habitat infrastructure, and with SmithGroupJRR, of Ann Arbor, Michigan, to design the public amenities infrastructure. The Division of Wildlife committed a total of $4 million to help fund the wetland restoration, with Metroparks providing a 25 percent match. The Division’s contribution was reimbursed with dollars from the federal PittmanRobertson Act, an excise tax on hunting and fishing equipment used to fund habitat restoration. Ducks Unlimited obtained a $2.8 million grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration through the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative to assist with construction. A contractor, Mark Haynes Construction of Norwalk, Ohio, began work in June 2016 and finished last fall after moving enough dirt – approximately 700,000 cubic yards – to fill the first 24 floors of the Empire State Building. Nearly 30,000 tons of stone was hauled in, and before the project is done, 12,000 trees and shrubs will be planted. By opening day, the prop-

erty will be mostly flooded with lake water from a channel, thanks to new pumps capable of moving 1.2 million gallons per hour. The main pump, said Schetter, could fill an Olympic-sized swimming pool in 33 minutes. “It’s been an amazing transformation,” said Denis Franklin, a supervisor in the Metroparks natural resources department who has overseen the project from the start. “It’s hard to imagine just 18 months ago this was a farm field.” With more than six miles of hiking trails and another six miles of permanent, deep-water channel for fishing and kayaking through nearly 600 acres of marsh, the park will provide new recreational outlets while creating habitat for migrating birds and spawning fish. Placing a park near the lakeshore has been a priority for Metroparks Toledo for years. Providing additional parkland is a strategic initiative begun in 2002 when nearly two-thirds of Lucas County electors voted in favor of a property tax levy to acquire additional parkland for the future. “Since that time, we have added 4,500 acres, from the globally significant Oak Openings Region on the west side of the county, to this property near our eastern border,” said Scott J. Savage, president of the Board of Park Commissioners, governing body of Metroparks Toledo. “Without this property, we could not make good on another promise: to have a Metropark within five miles of every resident of Lucas County. “With so little of the original Lake Erie wetlands remaining,” Savage continued, “being able to restore 1,000 acres so close to the shore is a rare opportunity.”

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

FOUNDED IN 2006 BY BLACK SWAMP BIRD OBSERVATORY

2018

Do you like spending time outdoors learning about birds & nature? Then the OYBC is for YOU!

* OYBC participation is limited to youth ages 12 - 18

Check out your Bird Friends by Kayak! at the new Howard Marsh Metropark

Full Day, Half Day & Hourly Rates paddle & life vest included

Maumee Bay Kayak Livery maumeebaykayak.com

by reservation only

For more information about the OYBC, to become an OYBC member, or to make a donation go to: www.ohioyoungbirders.org or call 419-898-4070

Bird Tattoo Contest

A perennial favorite, The Biggest Week Bird Tattoo Contest has been wowing audiences since its inception in 2013. Embracing everyone from seasoned birders to those that have never picked up a pair of binoculars, our tattoo contest aims to highlight permanent art, share the stories behind avian inks, and showcase the diversity of birders. This event is open to everyone, even if you’ve never been birding before. If you have a bird tattoo, we want to see it! Three top-place prizes will be awarded by our esteemed panel of judges based on accuracy, creativity, and the story behind the ink. Each top-place prize will include The Crossley ID Guide: Waterfowl. First place will include a pair of Celestron Nature DX binoculars.

Tattoos must be publicly shareable! 3 top-place prizes • Celestron binoculars • Crossley ID Guide

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

For All Your Sweet-Tooth Needs! • Shakes • Sundaes • Malts • Ice Cream Sodas • Slushies • Cheese Cake on a Stick • Hamburgers • Hot Dogs • Chili Dogs

Quick Meals Too

Tell Us That You’re a “Birder” & Receive

10% OFF

Your Entire Order! DG’S

Just a few miles from Maumee Bay State Park

DG’S

DG’s Soft Serve & Fast Foods 10609 Jerusalem Rd. Curtice, OH 43412 419-836-7254

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

Tips for reporting bird sightings at Magee Marsh Wildlife Area to eBird

Magee Marsh Wildlife Area attracts birders from all over the world. There are many Hotspots set up in eBird to receive your bird checklists when you visit. Magee Marsh is one of those locations in Ohio where a county line runs right through the middle of the area! Thus, there is no “general” hotspot for all of Magee Marsh. There are eBird Hotspots for each county. The south portion of Magee Marsh Wildlife Area (near OH-2) is in Ottawa County. The north portion of the wildlife area (near Lake Erie) is in Lucas County. Most birders want to get to the Boardwalk and most of the checklists at Magee are reported here: Magee Marsh Wildlife Area--Boardwalk You may use this Hotspot to report birds you see on the Boardwalk itself or along the wood edge on the south side of the parking lot adjacent to the Boardwalk. As you enter Magee Marsh from OH-2 there are several Hotspots along the route: Black Swamp Bird Observatory and Trails This is the area around the Black Swamp Bird Observatory office and visitor center, including feeders and the trails that connect with Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge. Magee Marsh--Migratory Bird Center and Hawk Tower There are feeders at the Bird Center and trails into the marsh. Magee Marsh--Causeway Marshes (Ottawa Co.) The county line crosses the Causeway near the second pull off south of Lake Erie. Most of the Causeway is in Ottawa County. Magee Marsh--Causeway Marshes (Lucas Co.) This is a short section of the Causeway nearest Lake Erie. The birds, of course, do not care about the county line and freely cross it. Some eBirders carefully keep their personal lists by county. There are three Hotspots associated with the beach: Magee Marsh Wildlife Area--Beach East The parking area for this beach is at the end of the Causeway where the road turns left toward the Boardwalk. Magee Marsh Wildlife Area--Beach West This is the beach of the former Crane Creek State Park. Ottawa NWR--Crane Creek Estuary Trail This partnership trail was opened in 2012 and offers additional warbler habitat as well as excellent access to the Crane Creek Estuary. Most of the trail is in Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge. You can help make the data in eBird most helpful if you can avoid three types of checklists:  No trip lists. eBird protocols are not set up to accept checklists that represent a “day” or “trip” checklist of all the birds you have seen on a given day. Your sightings from an entire day of birding should be broken up into checklists representing the locations you visited. The only exception is when you have spent the entire time at a single discrete location (Big Sit, walk along the Boardwalk all day).  No county wide or multi-county checklists. eBird reviewers will not be able to validate such checklists as part of the research database which is built from data submitted to eBird.  No multi-party listings. If you split up, and bird separately (effort is no longer coordinated), that is a separate effort and so do not add sightings into one conglomerate checklist. If you bird loosely together in one coordinated effort that it still one checklist. Have one eBirder submit the list for a group and then share it with you and others in the group. You can then adjust your copy of the checklist list to reflect what you yourself observed.

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

Tips for reporting bird sightings at Magee Marsh Wildlife Area to eBird

Tips for reporting sightings at Ottawa Wildlife Refuge Magee Marsh Wildlife Area attractsbird birders from all over the world.National There are many Hotspots set upto in eBird eBird to receive your bird checklists when you visit. Magee Marsh is one of those locations in Ohio where a county line runs right throughWildlife the middle of the area! thereThe is no “general” hotspot all ofisMagee Ottawa National Refuge spans twoThus, counties. northern part of the for refuge in LucasMarsh. CountyThere and the are eBird Hotspots for eachCounty. county. The south portion of Magee Marsh Wildlife Area (near OH-2) is in Ottawa southern part is in Ottawa County. The north portion of the wildlife area (near Lake Erie) is in Lucas County. Lucas County

Ottawa County

Ottawa NWR--Veler Rd.

Ottawa NWR--Show Pool

Most birders want to get to the Boardwalk and most of the checklists at Magee are reported here: OttawaMarsh NWR (Lucas Co.) Ottawa NWR (Ottawa Co.) Magee Wildlife Area--Boardwalk Ottawa CreektoEstuary Co.)see on the Boardwalk Ottawaitself NWR--Visitor Center andedge Boardwalk You mayNWR--Crane use this Hotspot report (Lucas birds you or along the wood on the south Ottawa NWR--Crane Creek Estuary Trail Ottawa NWR--Entrance Pool side of the parking lot adjacent to the Boardwalk. As you enter Magee Marsh OH-2 along the route: Ottawa NWR--Wildlife Drivefrom (Lucas Co.)there are several Hotspots Ottawa NWR--Pool 1 Trail Black Swamp Bird Observatory and Trails Ottawa NWR--Walking Trail Pools This is the area around the Black Swamp Bird Observatory office andNWR--Walking visitor center, including feeders and the Ottawa Trail Woodland trails that connect with Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge. Ottawa NWR--Wildlife Drive (Ottawa Co.) Magee Marsh--Migratory Bird Center and Hawk Tower Ottawa NWR--Crane Creek Estuary (Ottawa Co.) There are feeders at the Bird Center and trails into the marsh. Ottawa NWR--Adam Grimm Prairie

Ottawa NWR--Boss Unit Magee Marsh--Causeway Marshes (Ottawa Co.) Ottawa Rd. @ofKrause Rd. and is in The county line crosses the Causeway near the second pull off southNWR--Stange of Lake Erie. Most the Causeway Observation Tower Ottawa County. Ottawa-Lucas Co. Rd. (Ottawa Co.) Magee Marsh--Causeway Marshes (Lucas Co.) NWR--Kontz Bodiabout and Lemon Roads This is a short section of the Causeway nearest Lake Erie. TheOttawa birds, of course, do Unit, not care the county line and freely cross it. Some eBirders carefully keep their personal lists byBird county. Black Swamp Observatory and Trails There are three Hotspots associated with the beach: Reporting Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge Wildlife Drive Bird Checklists on eBird Magee Marsh Wildlife Area--Beach East The parking area for this beach is at the end of the Causeway where the road turns left toward the Boardwalk. If you wish to report your bird sightings to eBird from the Wildlife Drive at Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge, Magee Marsh Wildlife Area--Beach West thereis are eBird Hotspots receive yourState reports: This thetwo beach of the formertoCrane Creek Park. NWR—Wildlife Drive (Ottawa Co.) Ottawa NWR--Crane Creek Estuary Trail Ottawa NWR—Wildlife Drive (Lucas Co.) and offers additional warbler habitat as well as excellent access to This partnership trail was opened in 2012 the Estuary. of Drive the trail is Ottawa in Ottawa National Refuge.is in Lucas Co. You are on the TheCrane south Creek portion of the Most Wildlife is in County, theWildlife north portion

county line when the Wildlife Drive turns right (east) on Ottawa-Lucas Road.

You can help make the data in eBird most helpful if you can avoid three types of checklists: Please No keep trip lists. protocols areyou notsee, set up accept represent a “day” “trip” in checklist two eBird checklists of birds onetofor each checklists portion ofthat the Wildlife Drive. Theor section Ottawaof all the birds you have seen on a given day. Your sightings from an entire day of birding should be broken up County is about 2.4 miles; the section in Lucas County is 3 miles. eBird recommends a “traveling” count to five into representing locations you visited. exception is when yousightings. have spent the entire miles or checklists less and sorts your birdthe sightings by county, thus The twoonly “hotspots” to report your Sometimes time at a single discrete location (Big Sit, walk along the Boardwalk all day). the route of the Wildlife Drive varies, so you might want to set your odometer to record the actual miles you cover Nofor county wide or multi-county checklists. eBird reviewers will not be able to validate such checklists as each section. part of the research database which is built from data submitted to eBird.  No multi-party listings. If you split up, and bird separately (effort is no longer coordinated), that is a eBird web site: http://ebird.org/ separate effort and so do not add sightings into one conglomerate checklist. If you bird loosely together in Ohio eBird Hotspot web site: one coordinated effort that it still one checklist. Have one eBirder submit the list for a group and then http://ohioebirdhotspots.wikispaces.com share it with you and others in the group. You can then adjust your copy of the checklist list to reflect what you yourself observed.

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

Dining Guide Canoe Club

Fresh food, prepared from scratch, using locally sourced ingredients.

WINE BAR

Welcome Birders!

Come check out our Wine Bar, Wood Oven Pizza's & Pasta! 5831 E Harbor Road Marblehead OH 43440 Corner of 163 East & 269 North • 419-960-7030 www.CanoeClubWineBar.com SUN–THURS 4–10PM • FRI & SAT 4–11PM

Open daily at 6:00 a.m. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

We are a “PAY-IT-FORWARD” Restaurant Lunch is served Mon–Fri 11–2pm, Brunch is served 10–2pm on Saturdays!

1812Rosies.com 419-960-7546 2590 East Sand Road Port Clinton

The Closest Restaurant to Maumee Bay State Park

R E S TA U R A N T

• Prime Rib • Steaks • Lake Erie Perch • Seafood • Salads

Family Restaurant

Six miles south of the lake, the way the crow flies 501 Oak Street • Oak Harbor, OH • 419-898-2593

Bayside

Fine Dining with Hometown Flair

6067 Bayshore Road 419-697-1000 WELCOME BIRDERS!

Catering & Banquet Hall

Formerly Bayside Boardwalk • Under New Ownership

Thursday Night Dinners 4-8pm

ristorante italiano

Walk-In/Sit-Down or Carry-Out Chicken Paprikash or NY Strip $11.00 ½ lb. Perch Dinners $15.00 Shrimp • Smelt • Frog Legs Reserve the Banquet Hall

2759 Seaman Rd. Oregon 419-693-6950 • 419-466-9754

3880 Harbor Light Landing Drive

(Across from the Lake Erie Welcome Center on Rte 53)

www.ciaobellaohio.com

419-734-CIAO (2426)

Open daily 7am Happy Hour 2-6pm

255 W Lakeshore Dr. Port Clinton 419-734-2243

BUY ONE ENTRÉE, GET ONE HALF OFF! *equal or lesser value*

Sunday – Thursday Expires May 20, 2018

255 W Lakeshore Dr., Port Clinton 419-734-2243

10% OFF RACK RATE! Expires May 20, 2018

113 W. Main Street, Lakeside-Marblehead 419-798-5356

$2.00 off $19.99 or more. Excludes alcohol. Dine in only.

www.marbleheadgalley.com

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

Dining Guide 5686 E. Harbor Rd, Marblehead OH

Welcome Birders!

Come visit our Bakery & Deli! We have coffee too!

3975 E. Harbor Rd. Port Clinton 419-734-6400 nagoyaohio.com

8037 E. Harbor Rd. Marblehead, Ohio

Welcome Birders!

WE NOW FILL PROPANE TANKS

419-798-5203

106 W PERRY ST. VISIT US IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN PORT CLINTON 419-967-9037

Welcome Birders!

3ZIV HIPMGMSYW ƽEZSVW SJ TSTGSVR Frosted almonds & pecans, & many other treats!

Welcome Birders! Open Daily!

SJJ ER] TSTGSVR TYVGLEWI (Behind Arlington Inn, Downtown Port Clinton)

10% off meal purchase!

www.clintonhousepc.com

Monday Special

8 oz. Ribeye & Baked Potato

$9.99

2080 Woodville Rd. 419-725-2888

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT: Most Thursdays - Sundays EAT AT SLATERS! Live Entertainment!

(one coupon per customer)

OPEN 7 days a week • www.greatlakespopcorn.com

WELCOME BIRDERS!

10% OFF your meal

"Voted Best Burger" 3 years in a row!

(with this coupon)

1634 E. Perry St. Port Clinton (in the Ace Plaza)

Open Daily at 11am

419-573-6357

www.smokeysbbqroadhouse.com

Daily Specials! Open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner!

Would you like to participate in next year’s KARAOKE WITH RON HOWARD WEDNESDAYS, 5:30-8:30 FEATURING GREAT SONGS WITH WEEKLY CONTEST & PRIZES! MARK WILKINS & RON HOWARD THURSDAYS, 5-8PM

IN THE BASSETT’S PLAZA - RT 53 & 163 • (419) 301-3700 SUN–THURS 11:30A–10P | FRI & SAT 11:30A–11P

10% OFF MEAL

“Biggest Week in American Birding” Dining Guide?

101 Madison St, Port Clinton 419-732-8800 McCarthysIrishPubPC.com

Call 419-836-2221 for more information.

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

Bald Eagle Nests at Magee Marsh Wildlife Area  Bald Eagles have been removed from the Endangered Species list….a true success story!  2017 surveys showed an estimation of 221 nests producing 312 young.  Eagles are still protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.  All migratory bird nests are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.  There are 2 eagle nests on Magee Marsh that require protection during the spring birding season.  Buffer areas have been marked off around nests, and it is against federal law to enter these areas.  The roadway leading to the boardwalk parking areas will remain open.  Protection of these nests has been developed in consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Photo by Vincent Capozziello

PLEASE REMEMBER: Magee Marsh is a state wildlife area managed for the state’s fish and wildlife resources. The primary purpose for the area is to provide needed habitat for migratory birds and wetland-dependent species. Wildlife recreational opportunities, while very important, are secondary to habitat goals. In addition to the Bald Eagle nest buffers, some areas are closed to visitors to reduce disturbance to wildlife in the area. Please stay on trails and out of closed areas to prevent further restrictions to visitors. YOU CAN HELP! Magee Marsh Wildlife Area is managed through funds generated by the sale of hunting and fishing licenses, wetland habitat stamps and associated permits. Wildlife Restoration dollars also significantly contribute toward this purpose. You can help support the management of this area and provide for continued birding opportunity by purchasing an Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp and a Federal Duck Stamp. Visit wildohio.gov for more information. The birds would certainly appreciate it!

Dining Dining Guide Dining Guide Welcome Guide Birders!

Open Daily at 11am for lunch

5686 E. Harbor Rd, Marblehead OH

Home of the $ 5 Martini 3975 E. Harbor Rd. Port Clinton 419-734-6400 nagoyaohio.com

WELCOME BIRDERS!

106 W PERRY ST. VISIT US IN HISTORIC SERVING DOWNTOWN BREAKFAST & LUNCH PORT CLINTON We also deliver 419-967-9037

N 7

Welcome Birders! 419•798•1700 306 Main Street Marblehead, OH

Open Daily! 10% off meal purchase!

www.clintonhousepc.com (Behind Arlington Inn, Downtown Port Clinton)

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT:

Monday

4112 N. Crogan Street Port Clinton, OH 43452 419-797-2501 catawbainn@gmail.com

8037 E. Harbor Rd. Marblehead, Ohio

419-798-5203

419-732-2200 OPEN DAILY 7 -8 Welcome Birders! 2853 HARBOR RD • PORT ComeEvisit our Bakery & Deli!CLINTON WE NOW FILL PROPANE TANKS We have coffee too!

Welcome Birders!

ST.

Come visit our Bakery & Deli! Information at www.catawbainn.com! We have coffee too! AM

5686 E. Harbor Rd, Marblehead OH

WELCOME BIRDERS! Welcome Birders! Check out our Menu & Entertainment

8037 E. Harbor Rd. Marblehead, Ohio

419-798-5203

WE NOW FILL PROPANE TANKS

Welcome Birders!

3ZIV HIPMGMSYW ƽEZSVW SJ TSTGSVR Frosted almonds & pecans, & many other treats!

2048 E. Sand Rd. Welcome Birders! (Behind Arlington Inn, 3ZIV HIPMGMSYW ƽEZSVW SJ TSTGSVR Port Clinton, OH Downtown Port Clinton) Frosted almonds & pecans, 419-734-6209 & many other treats! LIVE ENTERTAINMENT: Most SJJ ER] TSTGSVR TYVGLEWI Thursdays - Sundays (one coupon per customer)

EAT AT SLATERS! Live Entertainment!

SJJ ER] TSTGSVR TYVGLEWI (one coupon per customer)

Daily Specials!

3515 E. STATE ROAD, PORT CLINTON

• 419-732-0236 OPEN 7 days aWWW.TINGOOSEDINER.COM week • www.greatlakespopcorn.com

WELCOME BIRDERS!

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

Welcome Birders! PORT CLINTON MARKET & PHARMACY Knoll Crest Shopping Center 3994 East Harbor Rd. • (419) 734-6506 SUN-THU 7am - 10pm• FRI-SAT 7am-11pm

You’ll love our... Fresh Meat, Seafood & Sushi Case With the highest quality meats you won’t find anywhere else!

Fresh Produce Department

Where we have locally-sourced produce– We even grow our own!

Enjoy a Coffee on us! Valid May 4th - 13th, 2018

ONE FREE MEDIUM COFFEE! Some exclusions may apply

PLU #625

Full Service Deli Case

With homemade hot lunch & dinner selections made daily – try it yourself!

In-House Bakery

Where we make the best homemade donuts on the North Coast Valid May 4th - 13th, 2018

ONE FREE HOMEMADE DONUT Some exclusions may apply

PLU #630

The Largest Beer & Wine Selection in Northwest Ohio Don’t forget about our State Liquor Store!

And our Hardware store –

with everything you need for your latest project! – We have Flash Drives & SD Cards!

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

For the birds! ROOKERY CRUISE

Join Friends of Ottawa NWR for a sunset birding cruise around West Sister Island, the largest island rookery in the U.S. Great Lakes!

Saturday, May 5, 2018 6:45pm - 9:00pm

Tickets are on sale now: www.friendsofottawanwr.org 419-898-0014 x13

West Sister Island National Wildlife Refuge

THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING

2018

NEW!

A CENTURY OF KNOWLEDGE HAS COME TO LIFE Noctivid binoculars Leicaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s storied 110 year heritage of pursuing optical perfection has yielded its best yet: the new Leica Noctivid binocular. Simply, the brightest, sharpest, highest contrast and purest color images available in a binocular today. Discover much more at your Leica dealer and by visiting Leica-sportoptics.com.

Experience the latest products from Leica at Optics Alley at Black Swamp Bird Observatory during the Biggest Week in American Birding.