In Northeast Ohio, fall is a great time to go birding. The Fall Migration, when birds start their long journey south, typically begins in late-July, but the best time to see migrating songbirds, like Vireos, Thrushes and Warblers begins in September.
Because of Mentor’s unique location on the shores of Lake Erie with close proximity to the Mentor Marsh and Mentor Lagoons Nature Preserve, we have a front row seat to view this amazing yearly event.
With the ongoing restoration of the Mentor Marsh, a wide variety of birds now stop in the area that now features native plants and access to grasslands.
Another excellent viewing site is the Headlands Dunes State Nature Preserve, located on the eastern edge of Headlands Beach State Park. Beach grass, cottonwood, Canada wild-rye, goldenrod and an abundance of other plants makes the area a popular destination for our feathered friends to rest and refuel before continuing their arduous journey.
Likewise, the Mentor Lagoons Nature Preserve and its access to marsh waters, Lake Erie and forest draws those along the migration trail.
Over 47 million people are actively involved in the hobby of birdwatching. Birds are everywhere! You can start in your backyard or visit the Lagoons, Marsh or Headlands Dunes to begin. All you really need is a good pair of binoculars, a field guide or bird app and notebook to log your discoveries.
Mentor’s Park & Recreation Natural Resources Division has created a Mentor Marsh Region Bird Field Checklist that lists 292 species of birds that may be sighted in the area. The pocket guide lists the species and seasonal information detailing if the species is common or rare. You may pick up a free copy of the guide at the Mentor Lagoons office and Trail Map kiosk, or the Mentor Municipal Center lobby. You can also download a copy from our Birding page!