2013 TNA Field Trips
2013 will be an exciting year for field trips. We have a lineup that includes many of the more popular, traditional trips as well as new ones. The vast majority of field trips have their dates and times set. In a few exceptions, we know generally that we are having a trip, but will decide on details as we get closer to the actual date. In those cases, you will see that meeting time and place are "TBD" (to be determined). As always, check your newsletter, www.rarebird.org or the phone hotline for the very latest updates.
January
January 12, 1-3pm Urban Birding Series: Winter at Woodlawn
The popular "Urban Birding" fall field trip has been expanded to a four-part series and this is the first of those four trips. Woodlawn Cemetery can be one of the most interesting places in Ohio for winter birding, and if there are siskins, crossbills or other winter finches around, they are sure to be here. Meet leaders Mark and Sherry Plessner at 1pm near the main headquarters building near the gate on Central Avenue.
January 20, 8:30am – 12pm Winter Gulls
Depending on ice conditions on the lake and river, we could see a nice variety of winter gulls such as Glaucous, Iceland, and Lesser Black-backed Gulls. Potential areas to visit include Bayshore Power Plant, north Toledo (Lotus Drive, etc.), the Maumee River and Erie Power. Dress warmly, pack your favorite hot beverage, and meet leader Tom Kemp at 8:30 a.m. at the public access on Bayshore Road in Oregon, just east of the power plant. This trip will be dependent on birds, ice conditions, and weather. Please check www.rarebird.org, or www.toledonaturalist.org websites for announcements on cancellations.
February
February 23, 9-11am The Woodpeckers of Secor Metropark
Secor Metropark is a great destination for a wintertime stroll through the woods. The target of the field trip will be the resident Pileated Woodpeckers, and we will focus on finding them. Along the way we are certain to encounter other more common woodpeckers like Downy, Hairy, Red-bellied and flicker. They should be actively drumming this time of year and we’ll see what else we can turn up. Meet Leader Greg Links at the Nature Center parking lot at 9am.
February 27, 7-8:30pm Owls of the Oak Openings
A great way to break up the week! Visit with the local owls of SW Lucas County around Oak Openings. Leader Sherrie Duris should be able to scrounge up Eastern Screech-owls and maybe a Barred Owl or two. A little luck will be required to get Great-horned and a bit more luck to get a Northern Saw-whet. But all 4 will be "on the table" for this popular trip. Meet leader Sherrie Duris at the Shell gas station, corner of Weckerly and Finzel Roads in Whitehouse at 7:00 p.m.
MARCH
March 9, 6-7pm Toledo Timberdoodles
With just a little luck, the late winter thaw will be upon us and the first of the returning American Woodcocks will be dancing the night away above the Toledo sky. Swan Creek Metropark in South Toledo is one of the best places to observe this strange shorebird within the city limits and Sherry and Mark Plessner will take you to their favorite area within the park. Meet the Plessners at the Swan Creek Metropark Window on Wildlife area at 6pm.
March 23, 8:30am-12pm Lake Erie Birding
Weather dictates the movement of birds so much; it’s difficult to say what might grace the Lake Erie shore in late March. Ducks will certainly be present, and some of the earliest arriving songbirds and other migrants should be seen. Southwest winds would almost guarantee a flight of hawks along the lake. Meet leader Matt Anderson at the Maumee Bay State Park campground parking lot at 8:30 a.m.
March 30, 7-9pm Maumee Bay State Park Owls and Woodcocks
Maumee Bay State Park is an Owl and Woodcock hotspot during the early spring. Great Horned and Eastern Screech Owls are year round residents of the park, and Short-eared, Long-eared and Saw-whet Owls have been found roosting during the winter/early spring months. American Woodcocks should be in full force as the sun sets. Join leader Sherrie Duris at the Sledding Hill parking lot at Maumee Bay State Park at 7:00 p.m. for a two mile walk around the
paved path in search of Owls and Woodcocks. Waterproof hiking boots are recommended.
APRIL
April 12, 7-9pm Spring Peeper Fever at Irwin Prairie
Dr. Todd Crail, scientist, teacher, and fun-loving madman will take us on an evening tour of Irwin Prairie State Nature Preserve just west of Toledo. We will make two rounds on the boardwalk, once at 7 and once at 8, to first watch, then listen to the sounds of animals drown out all other noise. The concert begins with the raking of chorus frogs and guttural ramblings of leopard frogs, the aerial displays and calls of woodcock and perhaps an early snipe. We will also see brown, ribbon and garter snakes, setting up for the night. The symphony then crescendos on the second round with the calls of the spring peepers, which will literally leave your ears ringing. Last year, even parts of the boardwalk were under water so be sure to wear appropriate shoes. Bring a flashlight and the kids!
April 13, 8am-12pm Looney for Loons with Birding Ohio
The Findlay Reservoirs just south of Toledo is as good a place as any to watch Common Loons as they migrate through our area. Jeff Loughman and Bob Sams have made this location a "must stop" for birders in the area. We will focus on loons and other waterbirds but you just never know what will show up here. Bring your scope if you have one and dress warmly. The Birding Ohio Facebook group now has nearly 1,000 members strong and Jeff is the founder of that very active group. We’ll open this trip to them as well, so there will be an opportunity to meet some great people. Meet at the parking area near the boat ramp at Reservoir #1 along C-205 at 8am
April 16, 7-9pm Herping in the State Forest
Join the TNA (leader TBD) on this great trip to look for snakes, frogs, salamanders and toads. With any luck, we will have a warm, rainy evening and the frogs and toads will be in full song. Possible finds are spring peepers, chorus frogs, wood frogs, American toads, snakes and "Blue-spotted" salamanders. Be prepared to get your feet wet. Directions: From
Rt. 24 SW of Waterville, go west on Neowash Rd. (which becomes road V in Henry County), turn left on CR. 2 and drive south until you reach the parking lot at the far end of the cedar trees.
April 27, 7am-12pm Late April Birding at Navarre Marsh with Black Swamp Bird Observatory
(SIGN-UP REQUIRED, LIMITED SPACES AVAILABLE)
Our friends at Black Swamp Bird Observatory have opened this incredible venue to us for a morning of birding along one of the most important migrant stopover locations in the Great Lakes. While we may take a peek into the famous banding station there, this field trip will focus on birding the wooded sand ridge that acts as a powerful migrant trap. This is a rare
opportunity and is sure to be a special experience. Co-leaders: Kenn and Kim Kaufman and Greg Links. Limited space will be assigned on a first-come-first serve basis. Use the reservation form on Field Trip Reservation page reserve your
space.
April 28, 8-11am Prairies and Potholes of NW Ohio
Due to the geology of the area, farm fields around Bellevue, OH accumulate enough water from snow melt and spring rains to form large ponds and superficially looks like the pothole region of North Dakota. These ponds can attract hundreds of lingering ducks and early shorebirds. We will also check a grassland area or two for sparrows and other passerines. All birding will be from the road. Carpooling is mandatory as we will need as few cars as possible due to limited parking on the roadside. Restroom facilities are limited. This is a great way to see ducks and shorebirds without having to hike the dikes of the western basin marshes. Be sure to bring your spotting scope if you have one. Meet leaders Jeff, Becky and Brad Cullen in the Lowe’s parking lot off US 20 in Perrysburg at 8:00 a.m.
MAY
May 3rd 8-9:30pm Springtime on the "Other" Boardwalk – Irwin Prairie II
Join leader Elliot Tramer to find shorebirds and amphibians at "the finest remaining sedge meadow in the state." We will walk the boardwalk, listening to the calls of Spring Peepers and Swamp Sparrows, until the loud trills of Tree Frogs drown them out. As the sun goes down, we will return to the open meadow to watch and listen for Woodcocks and possibly a Snipe or two as they display and call in the setting sun. Chances for Sora and Virginia Rail and other interesting birds as well. Meet at the Bancroft St. parking lot ¼ mile west of Irwin Rd at 8:00 p.m.
May 4, 7:30-10am Finding Warblers with the Wizard of Woodlawn
Tim Haney has spent more time birding at Woodlawn Cemetery than any other. Over the years, the "Wizard of Woodlawn" has discovered that this urban venue is more than just a Winter attraction. Migrating songbirds of all varieties use the green space of the cemetery as a stopover on their journey north, and Haney knows where to find them. Meet Tim at 7:30am at the headquarters building near the main gate on Central Avenue at 7:30am.
May 5, 10am - ??(all day) Southern Ohio Butterfly Specialties and More
Troy Shively is one of the top Butterfly people in Ohio and there is no better place than Scioto and Adams County to find them in early May. Targets will include species that are more difficult in other parts of the state: Silvery Blues, Dusky Azures, Juniper Hairstreaks, Roadside and Pepper and Salt Skippers are just a few. Dress accordingly as mornings can be cold. We will probably be walking a fair deal, so comfortable hiking boots/shoes are suggested. There are few places in the area to eat, so pack a lunch! If you are interested in hearing Chuck-Will’s-Widows and Whip-poor-wills the night before (spending the previous night in southern Ohio is recommended, as it is a 5 hour drive) email Troy and a meeting time/place for the nightjars will be arranged. His email address is troyph@hotmail.com. Meet at the Shawnee State Park Marina at 10am.
May 11, 8am-12pm Urban Birding Series, Ottawa and Jermaine Parks
There will be plenty of birding opportunities on this day, International Migratory Bird Day. But there is no need to travel beyond the city limits to see warblers, vireos, thrushes, orioles and more. The Ottawa Park area comprises the largest "green space" in the city and the river bottoms there and associated habitat provides terrific birding opportunities. Just east of there lies Jermaine Park and Meadow which offers a change in habitat, and an opportunity to discover additional species. Meet our Urban Birding King and Queen, Mark and Sherry Plessner at the Ottawa Park Golf Course Parking area at 8am. Trails could be wet, so come prepared.
May 11, 8am-12pm Pickerel Creek and the Blue Heron Reserve
For folks who are further east or are looking for a different lakeshore experience on International Migratory Bird Day, this trip could be for you. You never know what you might find at Pickerel Creek. Ducks and shorebirds will be expected, but rarities are not out of the question. White-faced Ibis, Tricolored Heron, Am. White Pelican, Franklin’s and Laughing Gulls, Eurasian Wigeon and Ruff are just a few of the rarities seen in recent years the first half of May. Other possible species include Sedge Wren, rails and bitterns. We will hike the dikes (some paved, some grass/gravel) and then drive the roads west of the main dike area. After exploring Pickerel Creek, we will move on to Blue Heron Preserve just around the corner where we will walk the boardwalk in search of migrants and resident passerines. Restroom facilities limited. Bring your spotting scope if you have one. Meet leaders Jeff, Becky and Brad Cullen at the Pickerel Creek viewing platform (parking area A) on US 6 eight miles east of the intersection of US 6 and US 20 in Fremont at 8am.
May 17-18, 9pm-9pm North Coast Open
In 2013, the North Coast Open falls at the absolute peak of migration. Instead of hanging up the binoculars after the Biggest Week and IMBD, join the TNA in their annual, fun birding big day event. The friendly competition is for birders of all skill levels and will again cover Lucas, Ottawa, Wood, Sandusky and Erie Counties. Planning a route is half the fun, and places like the Oak Openings, Magee Marsh, Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge and Pickerel Creek are all part of the geography and are among the very best birding locations in the entire state. Start at 9:00 p.m. Friday evening, or start at
whenever you want with 2 or 3 of your best birding buddies and beat the bushes until 9:00 p.m. Saturday, finding and identifying (by sight or sound) as many bird species as you can. Those less competitive birders can still enjoy the fun
by entering a team in the Freestyle Division. All interested parties are welcome to join the teams at the official countdown at Blackberry Corners at 9:00 p.m. See your TNA newsletter or the TNA website (here) for further details.
May 19, 10am-12:30pm Soujourn to the Savannah
Southview Oak Savannah is a little known treasure located between Sylvania Southview High School and the University/Parks Bike trail, which features seven acres of rare black oak savanna habitat in the heart of suburban and industrial development. Join us to see lupine, puccoon and blueberry packed among bluebirds and buntings, hognose snakes and box turtles on one of the largest and most developed parabolic dunes under conservation management in the Oaks. Stick around afterward to lend your hand in making this site even more spectacular, working to protect the 15 state-listed species that call this home. Hand tools and gloves will be provided. Meet leader Erika Buri at Organic Bliss at 10am at 3723 King Road.
May 25, 8am-12pm Late Neotropical Migrants
Warblers should still be quite common and some of the later migrants will be targeted. Yellow-bellied Flycatcher and cuckoos can be expected, and perhaps an Olive-sided Flycatcher will put in an appearance. A check of the beach should produce Ruddy Turnstones and Sanderlings, and maybe even a Red Knot. Meet trip leader Rick Nirschl at the west entrance of the boardwalk at Magee Marsh at 8:00 a.m.
May 31, 8pm-?? Moth Madness II with Black Swamp Bird Observatory
TNA teams up with Black Swamp Bird Observatory to explore after-hours lepidoptera! Butterflies get all the press, but the popularity of moth-watching is definitely growing, and for good reason. Moths are super-cool, and some of them are every bit as colorful and impressive as butterflies. Join us at Wintergarden Park/St. John’s Nature Preserve in Bowling Green from 8:15 PM - ???? for a fun night of looking at moths and other insects of the night. Kenn Kaufman, Sherri Doust and Becky Cullen will be our leaders and they'll provide all the equipment we need to attract moths, including black
lights, mercury vapor lamps, and moth bait. Kenn will share the ingredients to mix up your own bait and see what you can attract to your own yard, as well. TNA and BSBO will provide some light refreshments.
JUNE
June 1, 7:30am-12pm Williams County Birding with Williams County Bird Observatory
In the far Northwest of the state and less than an hour west of Toledo is Williams County, an outpost that holds many interesting bird species that can be difficult to find. No one knows the area as well as the folks at the Williams County Bird Observatory, and two of their co-founders have agreed to lead this trip for TNA. Jeff Grabmeier and Eric Durbin will lead the group in and around Lake La Su Ann Wildlife Area, the Pioneer Boy Scout Reservation and areas beyond
in search of such glamour birds as Henslow’s Sparrow, Sedge Wren and Cerulean Warbler. Other interesting birds like Yellow-throated and Prothonotary Warbler, Louisiana Waterthrush and Pileated Woodpeckers will also be targeted. Meet Jeff and Eric in the Parking Lot just west of the Wildllife Office Building along County Road R in the Lake La Su An Wildlife Area at 7:30am.
June 2, 8-10am Birding by Ear: An Introduction
Chuck Anderson has one of the sharpest ears around, and this educational field trip will focus on learning, and how to learn the essentials of bird songs and calls. If you’ve ever wished you could improve your birding by ear skills, then this field trip is a must. And there will be plenty of birds to listen to in the Oak Openings, which will be the location for the
outdoor class session. Meet Chuck at the Buehner Center at Mallard Lake in Oak Openings Metropark at 8am. Bring insect repellant and wear long pants.
June 9, 10am-2pm Swim with the Fishes at Sharon Mills
Grab your snorkel and mask and join Todd Crail in Sharon Hollow near Manchester, Michigan on the River Raisin for a unique and FUN experience - snorkeling with native fish and mussels. The River Raisin is one of the highest quality streams in the region, which allows us to see behaviors of fish up close and personal, and also witness the amazing lures native mussels use to infect their fish hosts. We will also have viewers, seines and streamside aquariums to allow for multiple levels of participation. Meet at Sharon Mills park in Manchester at 10am – address is 5701 Sharon Hollow
Road Manchester, MI 48158. Families are welcome.
June 9, 7am-2pm Birding Mohican State Park with Greg Miller
For the bird "specialists", here is a different field trip opportunity for June 9. Local expert Greg Miller will guide us through one of the most productive June birding locations in the state: Mohican State Park in Ashland County. Over 20 species of warblers have been known to breed here, including a number that are hard to find in the immediate Toledo area. The
hemlock ravines have Hermit Thrushes and Winter Wrens and other northern specialties and southerners like Yellow-throated and Worm-eating warblers are also quite possible. Hiking will be moderate, so wear good shoes/boots. Pack a
lunch and something to drink. Meet Greg at the Mohican State Park Nature Center at 7am. Address for Mohican State Park is: 3116 State Route 3, Loudonville, Ohio 44842-9526
June 11, 6:30-8:30pm Breeding Birds of the Oak Openings
Always a favorite, this trip is designed to see some of the regular breeding birds of the Oak Openings. Species we will seek include Lark Sparrow; Grasshopper Sparrow; Henslow’s Sparrow; Pine, Blue-winged and Hooded Warblers; Blue Grosbeak and Summer Tanager. Bring your bug spray. Long pants and closed-toe shoes are also recommended. Meet leader Matt Anderson at the Oak Openings Metropark Lodge at 6:30 p.m.
June 15, 10am-12pm Great Snakes! (Limited spaces, reservations required)
Mid June is an excellent time, and Maumee Bay State Park is an excellent place to observe some of the native snakes of our area. Kent Bekker, one of the area’s premier herpetologists, will take us along to some of his favorite "herping" spots at MBSP and teach us how to find and identify snakes, as well as give us the natural history of these species. We should find Butler’s and Eastern Garter Snakes (including the beautiful melanistic form), DeKay’s and Northern Water Snakes, and with a little luck, Eastern Fox Snake or something even more exotic. Reservations are limited and will be taken on a
first-come, first-serve basis. Use the reservation form on Field Trip Reservation page reserve your space.
June 23, 9am-?? (all day) Rare Butterflies of Western Ohio
We will be "wetland hopping" around the area, slogging through mud and wet grass, digging for "gold". Some of the exciting species we will target include the Mulberry-wing Skipper, Swamp Metalmark, Long Dash, Striped Hairstreak, Appalachian and Northern-eyed Browns, and, depending on how the season is progressing, Dukes' and Dion skippers. It will be hot and buggy, so bug spray, water and some food are suggested. Meet leader Troy Shively at the McDonald’s at the intersection of SR 68 and SR 33 in Bellefontaine at 9:00 AM.
June 29, 9am-12pm Critters of Cricket Frog Cove County Park
This Wood County Park has much to offer in the way of wildlife and is a favorite haunt of leaders Sherri Doust and Becky Cullen. Rare southern butterflies seen here in the past include Little Yellow and Cloudless Sulphur. Many other species can easily be seen on the walk to the pond where the number of dragonflies and damselflies will make your head spin. And let's not forget the stars of the park, the Cricket Frogs! Along the way Sherri will be sure to delight you with many other interesting insect finds while Becky points out the resident birds, which could include Dickcissel, Bobolink, Vesper
Sparrow and more. Meet in the parking lot off Freyman Road at 10:00 a.m. Plan for a couple hours in the field. Directions: Take I-75 south to the Cygnet Road exit and turn west (right). Turn south (left) at the first road (Rudolph
Road). Turn west (right) at the first road (Freyman Road) and continue to the entrance on the right.
JULY
July 14, 9am-12pm Restoration Celebration: Bringing Back the Landscape at Sylvan Prairie Park
Sylvan Prairie Park is a 150 acre parcel purchased by The Olander Park System in 2006, and is the largest parcel reserved for natural habitats and recreation in the Sylvania community. Find out how the park district has taken this abandoned golf course and housing development project and successfully turned it into habitat for wildlife during restoration activities of clay plain prairie and the headwaters of the Ottawa River watershed. Meet leader Erika Buri at the south lot of Sylvan Prairie Park, 8601 Brint road at 9am.
July 20, 9:30am-2pm Botany and Bugs of Erie County – Castalia Quarry and Resthaven Wildlife Areas
with Ohio Ornithological Society
Jim McCormac and Rick Nirschl will team up on this one of a kind opportunity to learn about all sorts of living things in a very under-studied area. McCormac will focus on plants, Nirschl on dragonflies (and they’ll tag-team the birds!) and the participants will benefit. These areas in Erie County just an hour to the east of Toledo provide some very interesting,
and different habitats and as such there is opportunity to find unusual plants and insects. Bring water, bug repellant and lunch. Hiking will be moderate. Meet at 9:30am in the parking lot for the Castalia Quarry Metropark, which is
at 8404 Sandusky Clyde Rd. (SR 101),_Castalia, OH 44846.
July 21 10am-12:30pm Prairie Delights, Oh My! Kitty Todd Preserve
Join Todd Crail at The Nature Conservancy's Kitty Todd Preserve to witness peak bloom of some of Ohio's most interesting and beautiful plants, along with great amounts of winged biodiversity utilizing Ohio's most extensive example of Black Oak Savanna. Meet at the Kitty Todd Parking area at 10:30am at 10420 Old State Line Road.
AUGUST
August 17, 9am-12pm Monclova Sand Pits , Oak Openings
This lesser known area of Oak Openings Metropark has plenty to offer in the way of flora as well as fauna. Blooming yellow-eyed grass, colic root, club mosses, and milkwort are some of the plants we should find. Dragonflies and butterflies abound, as well as many other interesting insects including the antenna-waving wasp. We may try to do some netting of critters, land and aquatic, for closer inspection. Meet trip leader Elliot Tramer at the Buehner Nature Center, Oak Openings Metropark at 9:00 a.m.
August 24 /Venue/Time TBD Shorebird ID with Black Swamp Bird Observatory
Ever feel confused by shorebirds? Young birds and adults are around this time of year, and the ability to age this group is fundamental to learning how to identify them. We’ll be teaming with Kenn Kaufman and the Black Swamp Bird Observatory on this field trip and we’ll focus on finding shorebirds and how to identify them. Shorebird habitat is ever-changing, so be sure to check your newsletter, the RBA and rarebird.org for the very latest on where to meet and when.
SEPTEMBER
September 1, 9am-12pm Wildflowers and Insects in the Lou Campbell Preserve
Lou Campbell Preserve encompasses 210 acres of wet sedge meadow, swamp forest, sand dunes, sand barrens prairie and oak openings. At least 47 rare plants and animals call the preserve home. Targeted butterfly species include Silver-bordered Fritillary and Harvester; wildflowers include Missouri Ironweed, Soapwort and Fringed Gentian, and Nodding and Yellow Ladies Tresses. Meet leaders Sherri Doust and Becky Cullen at the parking lot on Crissey Road just south of the turnpike.
September 7, 8am-12pm Finding Buff-breasted Sandpipers with Birding Ohio
The Findlay Reservoirs have proven to be a hotbed for great bird sightings, due largely to Jeff Loughman and Bob Sams who will lead us around the grassy dikes in search of Buff-breasted Sandpipers. This rare species peaks around the first week of September and multiples were seen at this location for many days in a row in 2012. These birds are juveniles, and are generally unwary and fairly easy to approach, allowing for decent photography opportunities, even without a long lens. The Birding Ohio Facebook group now has nearly 1,000 members strong and Jeff is the founder of that very active
group. We’ll open this trip to them as well, so there will be an opportunity to meet some great people. Meet at the parking area near the boat ramp at Reservoir #1 along C-205 at 8am.
September 8, 8am-12pm September Shorebirding
Anywhere from 10 to 20 species of shorebirds could be tallied during this traditional trip along the lakeshore. The destination will depend on available habitat. Meet leaders John Szanto and Sherrie Duris at Tony Packo’s, on the corner of Front and Consaul Street in east Toledo at 8:00 a.m.
September 14, 9am-?? Lake Erie Archipelago: Middle Bass and North Bass Islands, with
Ohio Department of Natural Resources (LIMITED SPACING – RESERVATIONS
REQUIRED)
Queue the old "Gilligan’s Island" TV show theme song – ‘Just sit right back and you’ll hear a tale…" – well, we won’t meet the same fate as that crew, but we will be exploring some seldom-visited islands in the Lake Erie archipelago. Specifically, we will board one of the ODNR vessels with Dana Bollin leading the way and set sail for Middle Bass Island and then North Bass. Birding will be the activity of the day, though we will certainly be on the lookout for any interesting plants and critters as well. We should see an excellent variety of neotropical migrants and there is always a good chance for something unusual out in the lake. Meet leader Dana Bollin at East Harbor State Park at the Lockwood Picnic Area (first left after entering the park) at 9am to carpool to the marina. There are nice bathrooms available on Middle Bass and there will be at least a Porta-John on North Bass. Plan on being out most of the day, and pack food and something to drink. Use the reservation form on Field Trip Reservation page reserve your space.
September 15, 8am-2pm Little Cedar Point with Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge (LIMITED SPACING –
RESERVATIONS REQUIRED)
The great staff at Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge have agreed to open up the normally off-limits Little Cedar Point National Wildlife Refuge for a day of birding during the peak of fall migration. You never know what you could run into out there as there is varied habitat and plenty of it. We’ll drive the dikes, stopping at strategic locations to scan the marshes and open lake, as well as bird the woodlots and thickets along the dikes. We are sure to see a wide variety of birds, and our day list could approach 100 species. This is a rare opportunity and spacing is limited. Co-leaders: Jason
Lewis, Refuge Manager and Greg Links. Use the reservation form on Field Trip Reservation page reserve your space.
September 21 9am-12pm Hidden Lake Gardens
Hidden Lake Gardens in Tipton, Michigan in Lenawee County is a mosaic of interesting woodland habitat that attracts an excellent variety of migrant songbirds. Mid-September is a great time for this unique location and we will see many neotropical migrants – warblers, vireos, thrushes and more. Leader Steve Stockford has lived in the area now for years and will take us to the various hot spots around the park. Meet at 9am in the parking lot of the visitors’ center. NOTE: There is a $3.00 Admission Fee to Hidden Lake Gardens.
September 22, 10am-2pm Hawk Migration at Raptor Mecca
Lake Erie Metropark and surrounding areas provides some of the best fall hawk watching on the continent. Co-author of Birds of the Toledo Area, raptor expert and all around good guy Steve Lauer will help us usher in autumn with an old-fashioned hawk watch. The BIG Broad-winged Hawk flight may or may not happen on this particular day, but with a little luck from Mother Nature, there should be a fair number of migrating hawks moving overhead. Be sure to watch rarebird.org for updates, as the trip is subject to cancellation if the weather is particularly poor. Meet leader Steve Lauer at the Boat Launch at Lake Erie Metropark at 10am.
September 28 8am-12pm Looking for Sparrows
Late September and early October feature a good variety of sparrows, some residents, some newly arrived from the north. We will search for 8-10 species of sparrows, perhaps finding one of the rarer species like LeConte's or Nelson's Sharp-tailed. Meet leader Tom Kemp at 8:00 a.m. at the old parking lot at Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge.
September 29, 11am-2pm Mushrooms of the Oak Openings
Mushrooms can be abundant in the Oak Openings in the fall if we've had sufficient rain to produce a good fruiting. We'll be searching for boletes, amanitas, chantrelles, puffballs, polypores and many more. Bring a field guide and camera if you have one and meet with leader Rick Nirschl at the Buehner Center parking lot near Mallard Lake at 11am.
OCTOBER
October 12, 8am-12pm Urban Birding Series, "Fall in Toledo"
This is the "original" field trip in the Urban Birding Series, and what a trip it is. In 2012, participants on this trip turned up a very photogenic Red-necked Phalarope! Join leaders Mark & Sherry Plessner and other urban birding enthusiasts to explore some of the city's hidden treasures. Cullen Park, Manhattan Marsh, and Detwiler Marsh are all likely destinations and chances are good that there will be a good variety of migrants around. Meet at 8:00 a.m. at the Cullen Park parking lot along Summit Street.
October 26, 8am-12pm The Trees of Historic Woodlawn Cemetery
Woodlawn Cemetery in the heart of Toledo is one of the area’s most historic and impressive arboretums. With nearly 300 species of trees of all shapes and sizes, one could wander the grounds all day trying to figure them out. We won’t need to though, because the old Wizard of Woodlawn has agreed to lead another trip for us to this fantastic location. Tim Haney knows the ins and outs of Woodlawn better than any other and he will educate us on the identification and history of the arboretum’s trees. Meet Tim near the main headquarters building off of Central Avenue at 8am.
October 27, 10am-2pm Raptors and Brunch
Raptors migrating south are the attraction, possible Golden Eagles are the goal. Bring your lawn chair and hope for clouds. Bring a food item to share; it doesn’t have to be fancy. Camp stoves and tables will be available. Perrysburg City Boat Launch. Directions: Four blocks (.4 miles) NE of "downtown" Perrysburg along the river on E. Front St. (Rt. 65), turn toward the river on Maple St. and drive downhill.
TBD, October, 12-4pm Snakes, Snakes Everywhere!
After the first big autumn cool down or two, we usually get an "Indian Summer" warm spell. When the sun is warm this time of year, the young-of-the-year snakes come out in force. Baby snakes of 4 or 5 species become abundant and we’ll lead you around Maumee Bay State Park to observe them as they move around or sun themselves. This is a family-friendly adventure, so bring the little ones! We will show them why snakes are not to be feared. We should have close encounters with baby Garters (Butler’s and Eastern), the intricately patterned Eastern Fox Snake and the tiniest snakes you may ever see – baby DeKay’s. Watch Rarebird.org for the latest updates. This trip can only be scheduled a few days in advance, depending on the weather. Leader: Greg Links
NOVEMBER
November 2, 8:30am-12pm Sterling State Park Birding
This nice lakeside park is only 15 miles north of Toledo, yet has never been visited for a TNA field trip until now! The leader has visited this park in various seasons in recent years, and although there are no promises for any rarities, this location will have a good variety of birds and the chance for interesting finds. Meet leader Paul Chad at the parking area near the beach - if entrance fees are being enforced (at this season, rarely), look to meet at an alternate place just outside (for carpooling), probably the carwash just across from the entrance. Take I-75 north to Exit 15 and turn right (east) - the park entrance is about a half-mile on the right. Dress for cold weather. Easy hiking. Restrooms available just outside park - 'portables' may be available in the park.
November 9-10 Weekend at Whitefish Point, MI
There are few venues within a day’s drive that are as interesting as this northern outpost in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Early November is a great time – waterbirds, gulls, owls and the first of the finches will be moving around the Point and the chance of a rarity is good this time of year. We will spend some time scanning Lake Superior at the tip, but the boreal forests to the south have gold for which to dig: Black-backed Woodpecker, Gray Jay, Boreal Chickadee and Spruce Grouse will be just some of the specialties we’ll target. Meet leaders Jeff, Becky and Brad Cullen in the Whitefish
Point Bird Observatory parking lot at 8am on Saturday, November 9. You’ll be on your own for making arrangements to stay (Paradise is the closest town, and generally has rooms available) Friday and Saturday night. The group will
bird all day Saturday, and much of the day Sunday. Dress for winter conditions.
November 16, 5-7pm Beavers of Ottawa NWR, with Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge
Did you know there are Beavers in NW Ohio? Well, there are, and the kind staff at Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge will show us! There are no guarantees we will actually see a beaver, but we are sure to see sign and refuge personnel will give us some natural history on this species on the refuge property. We’ll travel the dikes back to an active beaver area and with some luck, we may catch a glimpse of one as the sun sets. Meet leader Rebecca Hinkle at the ONWR new headquarters building at 5pm. Dress warmly.
November 23, 4-6:30pm Sandhill Cranes!
Join your hosts Diane and Eric Durbin on this journey to see one of the more spectacular avian events of the year: the staging of Sandhill Cranes near Jackson, MI. Just a little more than an hour from Toledo, the Haehnle Crane Sanctuary is one of the most important stopover sites for Sandhill Cranes as they wing their way south. Anywhere from several dozen to several thousand can be seen flying in to roost, depending on weather and water levels. This is a low-impact (not much hiking at all) field trip and you should bring a lawn chair, camera and something hot to drink. Meet the Durbins at the sanctuary at 4pm. Take US-23 or M-52 north to I-94 westbound and to Exit 147, Race Road, and turn right. Proceed north until road ends. Turn left on Seymour Rd. and proceed west to the sanctuary, on the north side of the
road.
January
January 12, 1-3pm Urban Birding Series: Winter at Woodlawn
The popular "Urban Birding" fall field trip has been expanded to a four-part series and this is the first of those four trips. Woodlawn Cemetery can be one of the most interesting places in Ohio for winter birding, and if there are siskins, crossbills or other winter finches around, they are sure to be here. Meet leaders Mark and Sherry Plessner at 1pm near the main headquarters building near the gate on Central Avenue.
January 20, 8:30am – 12pm Winter Gulls
Depending on ice conditions on the lake and river, we could see a nice variety of winter gulls such as Glaucous, Iceland, and Lesser Black-backed Gulls. Potential areas to visit include Bayshore Power Plant, north Toledo (Lotus Drive, etc.), the Maumee River and Erie Power. Dress warmly, pack your favorite hot beverage, and meet leader Tom Kemp at 8:30 a.m. at the public access on Bayshore Road in Oregon, just east of the power plant. This trip will be dependent on birds, ice conditions, and weather. Please check www.rarebird.org, or www.toledonaturalist.org websites for announcements on cancellations.
February
February 23, 9-11am The Woodpeckers of Secor Metropark
Secor Metropark is a great destination for a wintertime stroll through the woods. The target of the field trip will be the resident Pileated Woodpeckers, and we will focus on finding them. Along the way we are certain to encounter other more common woodpeckers like Downy, Hairy, Red-bellied and flicker. They should be actively drumming this time of year and we’ll see what else we can turn up. Meet Leader Greg Links at the Nature Center parking lot at 9am.
February 27, 7-8:30pm Owls of the Oak Openings
A great way to break up the week! Visit with the local owls of SW Lucas County around Oak Openings. Leader Sherrie Duris should be able to scrounge up Eastern Screech-owls and maybe a Barred Owl or two. A little luck will be required to get Great-horned and a bit more luck to get a Northern Saw-whet. But all 4 will be "on the table" for this popular trip. Meet leader Sherrie Duris at the Shell gas station, corner of Weckerly and Finzel Roads in Whitehouse at 7:00 p.m.
MARCH
March 9, 6-7pm Toledo Timberdoodles
With just a little luck, the late winter thaw will be upon us and the first of the returning American Woodcocks will be dancing the night away above the Toledo sky. Swan Creek Metropark in South Toledo is one of the best places to observe this strange shorebird within the city limits and Sherry and Mark Plessner will take you to their favorite area within the park. Meet the Plessners at the Swan Creek Metropark Window on Wildlife area at 6pm.
March 23, 8:30am-12pm Lake Erie Birding
Weather dictates the movement of birds so much; it’s difficult to say what might grace the Lake Erie shore in late March. Ducks will certainly be present, and some of the earliest arriving songbirds and other migrants should be seen. Southwest winds would almost guarantee a flight of hawks along the lake. Meet leader Matt Anderson at the Maumee Bay State Park campground parking lot at 8:30 a.m.
March 30, 7-9pm Maumee Bay State Park Owls and Woodcocks
Maumee Bay State Park is an Owl and Woodcock hotspot during the early spring. Great Horned and Eastern Screech Owls are year round residents of the park, and Short-eared, Long-eared and Saw-whet Owls have been found roosting during the winter/early spring months. American Woodcocks should be in full force as the sun sets. Join leader Sherrie Duris at the Sledding Hill parking lot at Maumee Bay State Park at 7:00 p.m. for a two mile walk around the
paved path in search of Owls and Woodcocks. Waterproof hiking boots are recommended.
APRIL
April 12, 7-9pm Spring Peeper Fever at Irwin Prairie
Dr. Todd Crail, scientist, teacher, and fun-loving madman will take us on an evening tour of Irwin Prairie State Nature Preserve just west of Toledo. We will make two rounds on the boardwalk, once at 7 and once at 8, to first watch, then listen to the sounds of animals drown out all other noise. The concert begins with the raking of chorus frogs and guttural ramblings of leopard frogs, the aerial displays and calls of woodcock and perhaps an early snipe. We will also see brown, ribbon and garter snakes, setting up for the night. The symphony then crescendos on the second round with the calls of the spring peepers, which will literally leave your ears ringing. Last year, even parts of the boardwalk were under water so be sure to wear appropriate shoes. Bring a flashlight and the kids!
April 13, 8am-12pm Looney for Loons with Birding Ohio
The Findlay Reservoirs just south of Toledo is as good a place as any to watch Common Loons as they migrate through our area. Jeff Loughman and Bob Sams have made this location a "must stop" for birders in the area. We will focus on loons and other waterbirds but you just never know what will show up here. Bring your scope if you have one and dress warmly. The Birding Ohio Facebook group now has nearly 1,000 members strong and Jeff is the founder of that very active group. We’ll open this trip to them as well, so there will be an opportunity to meet some great people. Meet at the parking area near the boat ramp at Reservoir #1 along C-205 at 8am
April 16, 7-9pm Herping in the State Forest
Join the TNA (leader TBD) on this great trip to look for snakes, frogs, salamanders and toads. With any luck, we will have a warm, rainy evening and the frogs and toads will be in full song. Possible finds are spring peepers, chorus frogs, wood frogs, American toads, snakes and "Blue-spotted" salamanders. Be prepared to get your feet wet. Directions: From
Rt. 24 SW of Waterville, go west on Neowash Rd. (which becomes road V in Henry County), turn left on CR. 2 and drive south until you reach the parking lot at the far end of the cedar trees.
April 27, 7am-12pm Late April Birding at Navarre Marsh with Black Swamp Bird Observatory
(SIGN-UP REQUIRED, LIMITED SPACES AVAILABLE)
Our friends at Black Swamp Bird Observatory have opened this incredible venue to us for a morning of birding along one of the most important migrant stopover locations in the Great Lakes. While we may take a peek into the famous banding station there, this field trip will focus on birding the wooded sand ridge that acts as a powerful migrant trap. This is a rare
opportunity and is sure to be a special experience. Co-leaders: Kenn and Kim Kaufman and Greg Links. Limited space will be assigned on a first-come-first serve basis. Use the reservation form on Field Trip Reservation page reserve your
space.
April 28, 8-11am Prairies and Potholes of NW Ohio
Due to the geology of the area, farm fields around Bellevue, OH accumulate enough water from snow melt and spring rains to form large ponds and superficially looks like the pothole region of North Dakota. These ponds can attract hundreds of lingering ducks and early shorebirds. We will also check a grassland area or two for sparrows and other passerines. All birding will be from the road. Carpooling is mandatory as we will need as few cars as possible due to limited parking on the roadside. Restroom facilities are limited. This is a great way to see ducks and shorebirds without having to hike the dikes of the western basin marshes. Be sure to bring your spotting scope if you have one. Meet leaders Jeff, Becky and Brad Cullen in the Lowe’s parking lot off US 20 in Perrysburg at 8:00 a.m.
MAY
May 3rd 8-9:30pm Springtime on the "Other" Boardwalk – Irwin Prairie II
Join leader Elliot Tramer to find shorebirds and amphibians at "the finest remaining sedge meadow in the state." We will walk the boardwalk, listening to the calls of Spring Peepers and Swamp Sparrows, until the loud trills of Tree Frogs drown them out. As the sun goes down, we will return to the open meadow to watch and listen for Woodcocks and possibly a Snipe or two as they display and call in the setting sun. Chances for Sora and Virginia Rail and other interesting birds as well. Meet at the Bancroft St. parking lot ¼ mile west of Irwin Rd at 8:00 p.m.
May 4, 7:30-10am Finding Warblers with the Wizard of Woodlawn
Tim Haney has spent more time birding at Woodlawn Cemetery than any other. Over the years, the "Wizard of Woodlawn" has discovered that this urban venue is more than just a Winter attraction. Migrating songbirds of all varieties use the green space of the cemetery as a stopover on their journey north, and Haney knows where to find them. Meet Tim at 7:30am at the headquarters building near the main gate on Central Avenue at 7:30am.
May 5, 10am - ??(all day) Southern Ohio Butterfly Specialties and More
Troy Shively is one of the top Butterfly people in Ohio and there is no better place than Scioto and Adams County to find them in early May. Targets will include species that are more difficult in other parts of the state: Silvery Blues, Dusky Azures, Juniper Hairstreaks, Roadside and Pepper and Salt Skippers are just a few. Dress accordingly as mornings can be cold. We will probably be walking a fair deal, so comfortable hiking boots/shoes are suggested. There are few places in the area to eat, so pack a lunch! If you are interested in hearing Chuck-Will’s-Widows and Whip-poor-wills the night before (spending the previous night in southern Ohio is recommended, as it is a 5 hour drive) email Troy and a meeting time/place for the nightjars will be arranged. His email address is troyph@hotmail.com. Meet at the Shawnee State Park Marina at 10am.
May 11, 8am-12pm Urban Birding Series, Ottawa and Jermaine Parks
There will be plenty of birding opportunities on this day, International Migratory Bird Day. But there is no need to travel beyond the city limits to see warblers, vireos, thrushes, orioles and more. The Ottawa Park area comprises the largest "green space" in the city and the river bottoms there and associated habitat provides terrific birding opportunities. Just east of there lies Jermaine Park and Meadow which offers a change in habitat, and an opportunity to discover additional species. Meet our Urban Birding King and Queen, Mark and Sherry Plessner at the Ottawa Park Golf Course Parking area at 8am. Trails could be wet, so come prepared.
May 11, 8am-12pm Pickerel Creek and the Blue Heron Reserve
For folks who are further east or are looking for a different lakeshore experience on International Migratory Bird Day, this trip could be for you. You never know what you might find at Pickerel Creek. Ducks and shorebirds will be expected, but rarities are not out of the question. White-faced Ibis, Tricolored Heron, Am. White Pelican, Franklin’s and Laughing Gulls, Eurasian Wigeon and Ruff are just a few of the rarities seen in recent years the first half of May. Other possible species include Sedge Wren, rails and bitterns. We will hike the dikes (some paved, some grass/gravel) and then drive the roads west of the main dike area. After exploring Pickerel Creek, we will move on to Blue Heron Preserve just around the corner where we will walk the boardwalk in search of migrants and resident passerines. Restroom facilities limited. Bring your spotting scope if you have one. Meet leaders Jeff, Becky and Brad Cullen at the Pickerel Creek viewing platform (parking area A) on US 6 eight miles east of the intersection of US 6 and US 20 in Fremont at 8am.
May 17-18, 9pm-9pm North Coast Open
In 2013, the North Coast Open falls at the absolute peak of migration. Instead of hanging up the binoculars after the Biggest Week and IMBD, join the TNA in their annual, fun birding big day event. The friendly competition is for birders of all skill levels and will again cover Lucas, Ottawa, Wood, Sandusky and Erie Counties. Planning a route is half the fun, and places like the Oak Openings, Magee Marsh, Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge and Pickerel Creek are all part of the geography and are among the very best birding locations in the entire state. Start at 9:00 p.m. Friday evening, or start at
whenever you want with 2 or 3 of your best birding buddies and beat the bushes until 9:00 p.m. Saturday, finding and identifying (by sight or sound) as many bird species as you can. Those less competitive birders can still enjoy the fun
by entering a team in the Freestyle Division. All interested parties are welcome to join the teams at the official countdown at Blackberry Corners at 9:00 p.m. See your TNA newsletter or the TNA website (here) for further details.
May 19, 10am-12:30pm Soujourn to the Savannah
Southview Oak Savannah is a little known treasure located between Sylvania Southview High School and the University/Parks Bike trail, which features seven acres of rare black oak savanna habitat in the heart of suburban and industrial development. Join us to see lupine, puccoon and blueberry packed among bluebirds and buntings, hognose snakes and box turtles on one of the largest and most developed parabolic dunes under conservation management in the Oaks. Stick around afterward to lend your hand in making this site even more spectacular, working to protect the 15 state-listed species that call this home. Hand tools and gloves will be provided. Meet leader Erika Buri at Organic Bliss at 10am at 3723 King Road.
May 25, 8am-12pm Late Neotropical Migrants
Warblers should still be quite common and some of the later migrants will be targeted. Yellow-bellied Flycatcher and cuckoos can be expected, and perhaps an Olive-sided Flycatcher will put in an appearance. A check of the beach should produce Ruddy Turnstones and Sanderlings, and maybe even a Red Knot. Meet trip leader Rick Nirschl at the west entrance of the boardwalk at Magee Marsh at 8:00 a.m.
May 31, 8pm-?? Moth Madness II with Black Swamp Bird Observatory
TNA teams up with Black Swamp Bird Observatory to explore after-hours lepidoptera! Butterflies get all the press, but the popularity of moth-watching is definitely growing, and for good reason. Moths are super-cool, and some of them are every bit as colorful and impressive as butterflies. Join us at Wintergarden Park/St. John’s Nature Preserve in Bowling Green from 8:15 PM - ???? for a fun night of looking at moths and other insects of the night. Kenn Kaufman, Sherri Doust and Becky Cullen will be our leaders and they'll provide all the equipment we need to attract moths, including black
lights, mercury vapor lamps, and moth bait. Kenn will share the ingredients to mix up your own bait and see what you can attract to your own yard, as well. TNA and BSBO will provide some light refreshments.
JUNE
June 1, 7:30am-12pm Williams County Birding with Williams County Bird Observatory
In the far Northwest of the state and less than an hour west of Toledo is Williams County, an outpost that holds many interesting bird species that can be difficult to find. No one knows the area as well as the folks at the Williams County Bird Observatory, and two of their co-founders have agreed to lead this trip for TNA. Jeff Grabmeier and Eric Durbin will lead the group in and around Lake La Su Ann Wildlife Area, the Pioneer Boy Scout Reservation and areas beyond
in search of such glamour birds as Henslow’s Sparrow, Sedge Wren and Cerulean Warbler. Other interesting birds like Yellow-throated and Prothonotary Warbler, Louisiana Waterthrush and Pileated Woodpeckers will also be targeted. Meet Jeff and Eric in the Parking Lot just west of the Wildllife Office Building along County Road R in the Lake La Su An Wildlife Area at 7:30am.
June 2, 8-10am Birding by Ear: An Introduction
Chuck Anderson has one of the sharpest ears around, and this educational field trip will focus on learning, and how to learn the essentials of bird songs and calls. If you’ve ever wished you could improve your birding by ear skills, then this field trip is a must. And there will be plenty of birds to listen to in the Oak Openings, which will be the location for the
outdoor class session. Meet Chuck at the Buehner Center at Mallard Lake in Oak Openings Metropark at 8am. Bring insect repellant and wear long pants.
June 9, 10am-2pm Swim with the Fishes at Sharon Mills
Grab your snorkel and mask and join Todd Crail in Sharon Hollow near Manchester, Michigan on the River Raisin for a unique and FUN experience - snorkeling with native fish and mussels. The River Raisin is one of the highest quality streams in the region, which allows us to see behaviors of fish up close and personal, and also witness the amazing lures native mussels use to infect their fish hosts. We will also have viewers, seines and streamside aquariums to allow for multiple levels of participation. Meet at Sharon Mills park in Manchester at 10am – address is 5701 Sharon Hollow
Road Manchester, MI 48158. Families are welcome.
June 9, 7am-2pm Birding Mohican State Park with Greg Miller
For the bird "specialists", here is a different field trip opportunity for June 9. Local expert Greg Miller will guide us through one of the most productive June birding locations in the state: Mohican State Park in Ashland County. Over 20 species of warblers have been known to breed here, including a number that are hard to find in the immediate Toledo area. The
hemlock ravines have Hermit Thrushes and Winter Wrens and other northern specialties and southerners like Yellow-throated and Worm-eating warblers are also quite possible. Hiking will be moderate, so wear good shoes/boots. Pack a
lunch and something to drink. Meet Greg at the Mohican State Park Nature Center at 7am. Address for Mohican State Park is: 3116 State Route 3, Loudonville, Ohio 44842-9526
June 11, 6:30-8:30pm Breeding Birds of the Oak Openings
Always a favorite, this trip is designed to see some of the regular breeding birds of the Oak Openings. Species we will seek include Lark Sparrow; Grasshopper Sparrow; Henslow’s Sparrow; Pine, Blue-winged and Hooded Warblers; Blue Grosbeak and Summer Tanager. Bring your bug spray. Long pants and closed-toe shoes are also recommended. Meet leader Matt Anderson at the Oak Openings Metropark Lodge at 6:30 p.m.
June 15, 10am-12pm Great Snakes! (Limited spaces, reservations required)
Mid June is an excellent time, and Maumee Bay State Park is an excellent place to observe some of the native snakes of our area. Kent Bekker, one of the area’s premier herpetologists, will take us along to some of his favorite "herping" spots at MBSP and teach us how to find and identify snakes, as well as give us the natural history of these species. We should find Butler’s and Eastern Garter Snakes (including the beautiful melanistic form), DeKay’s and Northern Water Snakes, and with a little luck, Eastern Fox Snake or something even more exotic. Reservations are limited and will be taken on a
first-come, first-serve basis. Use the reservation form on Field Trip Reservation page reserve your space.
June 23, 9am-?? (all day) Rare Butterflies of Western Ohio
We will be "wetland hopping" around the area, slogging through mud and wet grass, digging for "gold". Some of the exciting species we will target include the Mulberry-wing Skipper, Swamp Metalmark, Long Dash, Striped Hairstreak, Appalachian and Northern-eyed Browns, and, depending on how the season is progressing, Dukes' and Dion skippers. It will be hot and buggy, so bug spray, water and some food are suggested. Meet leader Troy Shively at the McDonald’s at the intersection of SR 68 and SR 33 in Bellefontaine at 9:00 AM.
June 29, 9am-12pm Critters of Cricket Frog Cove County Park
This Wood County Park has much to offer in the way of wildlife and is a favorite haunt of leaders Sherri Doust and Becky Cullen. Rare southern butterflies seen here in the past include Little Yellow and Cloudless Sulphur. Many other species can easily be seen on the walk to the pond where the number of dragonflies and damselflies will make your head spin. And let's not forget the stars of the park, the Cricket Frogs! Along the way Sherri will be sure to delight you with many other interesting insect finds while Becky points out the resident birds, which could include Dickcissel, Bobolink, Vesper
Sparrow and more. Meet in the parking lot off Freyman Road at 10:00 a.m. Plan for a couple hours in the field. Directions: Take I-75 south to the Cygnet Road exit and turn west (right). Turn south (left) at the first road (Rudolph
Road). Turn west (right) at the first road (Freyman Road) and continue to the entrance on the right.
JULY
July 14, 9am-12pm Restoration Celebration: Bringing Back the Landscape at Sylvan Prairie Park
Sylvan Prairie Park is a 150 acre parcel purchased by The Olander Park System in 2006, and is the largest parcel reserved for natural habitats and recreation in the Sylvania community. Find out how the park district has taken this abandoned golf course and housing development project and successfully turned it into habitat for wildlife during restoration activities of clay plain prairie and the headwaters of the Ottawa River watershed. Meet leader Erika Buri at the south lot of Sylvan Prairie Park, 8601 Brint road at 9am.
July 20, 9:30am-2pm Botany and Bugs of Erie County – Castalia Quarry and Resthaven Wildlife Areas
with Ohio Ornithological Society
Jim McCormac and Rick Nirschl will team up on this one of a kind opportunity to learn about all sorts of living things in a very under-studied area. McCormac will focus on plants, Nirschl on dragonflies (and they’ll tag-team the birds!) and the participants will benefit. These areas in Erie County just an hour to the east of Toledo provide some very interesting,
and different habitats and as such there is opportunity to find unusual plants and insects. Bring water, bug repellant and lunch. Hiking will be moderate. Meet at 9:30am in the parking lot for the Castalia Quarry Metropark, which is
at 8404 Sandusky Clyde Rd. (SR 101),_Castalia, OH 44846.
July 21 10am-12:30pm Prairie Delights, Oh My! Kitty Todd Preserve
Join Todd Crail at The Nature Conservancy's Kitty Todd Preserve to witness peak bloom of some of Ohio's most interesting and beautiful plants, along with great amounts of winged biodiversity utilizing Ohio's most extensive example of Black Oak Savanna. Meet at the Kitty Todd Parking area at 10:30am at 10420 Old State Line Road.
AUGUST
August 17, 9am-12pm Monclova Sand Pits , Oak Openings
This lesser known area of Oak Openings Metropark has plenty to offer in the way of flora as well as fauna. Blooming yellow-eyed grass, colic root, club mosses, and milkwort are some of the plants we should find. Dragonflies and butterflies abound, as well as many other interesting insects including the antenna-waving wasp. We may try to do some netting of critters, land and aquatic, for closer inspection. Meet trip leader Elliot Tramer at the Buehner Nature Center, Oak Openings Metropark at 9:00 a.m.
August 24 /Venue/Time TBD Shorebird ID with Black Swamp Bird Observatory
Ever feel confused by shorebirds? Young birds and adults are around this time of year, and the ability to age this group is fundamental to learning how to identify them. We’ll be teaming with Kenn Kaufman and the Black Swamp Bird Observatory on this field trip and we’ll focus on finding shorebirds and how to identify them. Shorebird habitat is ever-changing, so be sure to check your newsletter, the RBA and rarebird.org for the very latest on where to meet and when.
SEPTEMBER
September 1, 9am-12pm Wildflowers and Insects in the Lou Campbell Preserve
Lou Campbell Preserve encompasses 210 acres of wet sedge meadow, swamp forest, sand dunes, sand barrens prairie and oak openings. At least 47 rare plants and animals call the preserve home. Targeted butterfly species include Silver-bordered Fritillary and Harvester; wildflowers include Missouri Ironweed, Soapwort and Fringed Gentian, and Nodding and Yellow Ladies Tresses. Meet leaders Sherri Doust and Becky Cullen at the parking lot on Crissey Road just south of the turnpike.
September 7, 8am-12pm Finding Buff-breasted Sandpipers with Birding Ohio
The Findlay Reservoirs have proven to be a hotbed for great bird sightings, due largely to Jeff Loughman and Bob Sams who will lead us around the grassy dikes in search of Buff-breasted Sandpipers. This rare species peaks around the first week of September and multiples were seen at this location for many days in a row in 2012. These birds are juveniles, and are generally unwary and fairly easy to approach, allowing for decent photography opportunities, even without a long lens. The Birding Ohio Facebook group now has nearly 1,000 members strong and Jeff is the founder of that very active
group. We’ll open this trip to them as well, so there will be an opportunity to meet some great people. Meet at the parking area near the boat ramp at Reservoir #1 along C-205 at 8am.
September 8, 8am-12pm September Shorebirding
Anywhere from 10 to 20 species of shorebirds could be tallied during this traditional trip along the lakeshore. The destination will depend on available habitat. Meet leaders John Szanto and Sherrie Duris at Tony Packo’s, on the corner of Front and Consaul Street in east Toledo at 8:00 a.m.
September 14, 9am-?? Lake Erie Archipelago: Middle Bass and North Bass Islands, with
Ohio Department of Natural Resources (LIMITED SPACING – RESERVATIONS
REQUIRED)
Queue the old "Gilligan’s Island" TV show theme song – ‘Just sit right back and you’ll hear a tale…" – well, we won’t meet the same fate as that crew, but we will be exploring some seldom-visited islands in the Lake Erie archipelago. Specifically, we will board one of the ODNR vessels with Dana Bollin leading the way and set sail for Middle Bass Island and then North Bass. Birding will be the activity of the day, though we will certainly be on the lookout for any interesting plants and critters as well. We should see an excellent variety of neotropical migrants and there is always a good chance for something unusual out in the lake. Meet leader Dana Bollin at East Harbor State Park at the Lockwood Picnic Area (first left after entering the park) at 9am to carpool to the marina. There are nice bathrooms available on Middle Bass and there will be at least a Porta-John on North Bass. Plan on being out most of the day, and pack food and something to drink. Use the reservation form on Field Trip Reservation page reserve your space.
September 15, 8am-2pm Little Cedar Point with Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge (LIMITED SPACING –
RESERVATIONS REQUIRED)
The great staff at Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge have agreed to open up the normally off-limits Little Cedar Point National Wildlife Refuge for a day of birding during the peak of fall migration. You never know what you could run into out there as there is varied habitat and plenty of it. We’ll drive the dikes, stopping at strategic locations to scan the marshes and open lake, as well as bird the woodlots and thickets along the dikes. We are sure to see a wide variety of birds, and our day list could approach 100 species. This is a rare opportunity and spacing is limited. Co-leaders: Jason
Lewis, Refuge Manager and Greg Links. Use the reservation form on Field Trip Reservation page reserve your space.
September 21 9am-12pm Hidden Lake Gardens
Hidden Lake Gardens in Tipton, Michigan in Lenawee County is a mosaic of interesting woodland habitat that attracts an excellent variety of migrant songbirds. Mid-September is a great time for this unique location and we will see many neotropical migrants – warblers, vireos, thrushes and more. Leader Steve Stockford has lived in the area now for years and will take us to the various hot spots around the park. Meet at 9am in the parking lot of the visitors’ center. NOTE: There is a $3.00 Admission Fee to Hidden Lake Gardens.
September 22, 10am-2pm Hawk Migration at Raptor Mecca
Lake Erie Metropark and surrounding areas provides some of the best fall hawk watching on the continent. Co-author of Birds of the Toledo Area, raptor expert and all around good guy Steve Lauer will help us usher in autumn with an old-fashioned hawk watch. The BIG Broad-winged Hawk flight may or may not happen on this particular day, but with a little luck from Mother Nature, there should be a fair number of migrating hawks moving overhead. Be sure to watch rarebird.org for updates, as the trip is subject to cancellation if the weather is particularly poor. Meet leader Steve Lauer at the Boat Launch at Lake Erie Metropark at 10am.
September 28 8am-12pm Looking for Sparrows
Late September and early October feature a good variety of sparrows, some residents, some newly arrived from the north. We will search for 8-10 species of sparrows, perhaps finding one of the rarer species like LeConte's or Nelson's Sharp-tailed. Meet leader Tom Kemp at 8:00 a.m. at the old parking lot at Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge.
September 29, 11am-2pm Mushrooms of the Oak Openings
Mushrooms can be abundant in the Oak Openings in the fall if we've had sufficient rain to produce a good fruiting. We'll be searching for boletes, amanitas, chantrelles, puffballs, polypores and many more. Bring a field guide and camera if you have one and meet with leader Rick Nirschl at the Buehner Center parking lot near Mallard Lake at 11am.
OCTOBER
October 12, 8am-12pm Urban Birding Series, "Fall in Toledo"
This is the "original" field trip in the Urban Birding Series, and what a trip it is. In 2012, participants on this trip turned up a very photogenic Red-necked Phalarope! Join leaders Mark & Sherry Plessner and other urban birding enthusiasts to explore some of the city's hidden treasures. Cullen Park, Manhattan Marsh, and Detwiler Marsh are all likely destinations and chances are good that there will be a good variety of migrants around. Meet at 8:00 a.m. at the Cullen Park parking lot along Summit Street.
October 26, 8am-12pm The Trees of Historic Woodlawn Cemetery
Woodlawn Cemetery in the heart of Toledo is one of the area’s most historic and impressive arboretums. With nearly 300 species of trees of all shapes and sizes, one could wander the grounds all day trying to figure them out. We won’t need to though, because the old Wizard of Woodlawn has agreed to lead another trip for us to this fantastic location. Tim Haney knows the ins and outs of Woodlawn better than any other and he will educate us on the identification and history of the arboretum’s trees. Meet Tim near the main headquarters building off of Central Avenue at 8am.
October 27, 10am-2pm Raptors and Brunch
Raptors migrating south are the attraction, possible Golden Eagles are the goal. Bring your lawn chair and hope for clouds. Bring a food item to share; it doesn’t have to be fancy. Camp stoves and tables will be available. Perrysburg City Boat Launch. Directions: Four blocks (.4 miles) NE of "downtown" Perrysburg along the river on E. Front St. (Rt. 65), turn toward the river on Maple St. and drive downhill.
TBD, October, 12-4pm Snakes, Snakes Everywhere!
After the first big autumn cool down or two, we usually get an "Indian Summer" warm spell. When the sun is warm this time of year, the young-of-the-year snakes come out in force. Baby snakes of 4 or 5 species become abundant and we’ll lead you around Maumee Bay State Park to observe them as they move around or sun themselves. This is a family-friendly adventure, so bring the little ones! We will show them why snakes are not to be feared. We should have close encounters with baby Garters (Butler’s and Eastern), the intricately patterned Eastern Fox Snake and the tiniest snakes you may ever see – baby DeKay’s. Watch Rarebird.org for the latest updates. This trip can only be scheduled a few days in advance, depending on the weather. Leader: Greg Links
NOVEMBER
November 2, 8:30am-12pm Sterling State Park Birding
This nice lakeside park is only 15 miles north of Toledo, yet has never been visited for a TNA field trip until now! The leader has visited this park in various seasons in recent years, and although there are no promises for any rarities, this location will have a good variety of birds and the chance for interesting finds. Meet leader Paul Chad at the parking area near the beach - if entrance fees are being enforced (at this season, rarely), look to meet at an alternate place just outside (for carpooling), probably the carwash just across from the entrance. Take I-75 north to Exit 15 and turn right (east) - the park entrance is about a half-mile on the right. Dress for cold weather. Easy hiking. Restrooms available just outside park - 'portables' may be available in the park.
November 9-10 Weekend at Whitefish Point, MI
There are few venues within a day’s drive that are as interesting as this northern outpost in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Early November is a great time – waterbirds, gulls, owls and the first of the finches will be moving around the Point and the chance of a rarity is good this time of year. We will spend some time scanning Lake Superior at the tip, but the boreal forests to the south have gold for which to dig: Black-backed Woodpecker, Gray Jay, Boreal Chickadee and Spruce Grouse will be just some of the specialties we’ll target. Meet leaders Jeff, Becky and Brad Cullen in the Whitefish
Point Bird Observatory parking lot at 8am on Saturday, November 9. You’ll be on your own for making arrangements to stay (Paradise is the closest town, and generally has rooms available) Friday and Saturday night. The group will
bird all day Saturday, and much of the day Sunday. Dress for winter conditions.
November 16, 5-7pm Beavers of Ottawa NWR, with Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge
Did you know there are Beavers in NW Ohio? Well, there are, and the kind staff at Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge will show us! There are no guarantees we will actually see a beaver, but we are sure to see sign and refuge personnel will give us some natural history on this species on the refuge property. We’ll travel the dikes back to an active beaver area and with some luck, we may catch a glimpse of one as the sun sets. Meet leader Rebecca Hinkle at the ONWR new headquarters building at 5pm. Dress warmly.
November 23, 4-6:30pm Sandhill Cranes!
Join your hosts Diane and Eric Durbin on this journey to see one of the more spectacular avian events of the year: the staging of Sandhill Cranes near Jackson, MI. Just a little more than an hour from Toledo, the Haehnle Crane Sanctuary is one of the most important stopover sites for Sandhill Cranes as they wing their way south. Anywhere from several dozen to several thousand can be seen flying in to roost, depending on weather and water levels. This is a low-impact (not much hiking at all) field trip and you should bring a lawn chair, camera and something hot to drink. Meet the Durbins at the sanctuary at 4pm. Take US-23 or M-52 north to I-94 westbound and to Exit 147, Race Road, and turn right. Proceed north until road ends. Turn left on Seymour Rd. and proceed west to the sanctuary, on the north side of the
road.
