Ohio Ornithological Society to offer beginner bird tours

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FINDLAY — The Ohio Ornithological Society is now accepting signups for guided beginner bird tours during the International Migratory Bird Day weekend, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

The OOS, in cooperation with the ODNR Division of Wildlife, will be conducting guided bird walks May 14 and 15 at Magee Marsh Wildlife Area. These outings are targeted at novice or new birding enthusiasts and help people who are new to birding get better acquainted with the beauty of birds.

The walks on May 14 will be held at: 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. and the walks on May 15 will be held at 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Walks are limited to 15 participants each and will be filled on first come, first served basis. To sign up, applicants should send an email to: [email protected]. All emails should contain the applicant’s name, phone number, date and requested time-slot. A return email will confirm the meeting place, date and time.

In 2011, there were an estimated 3.2 million wildlife watchers in Ohio. Approximately 48,000 out-of-state birders visited Ohio in 2011, with Lake Erie being the most popular destination. These groups spent more than $843 million in Ohio in 2011 alone on supplies, lodging, gasoline, travel expenses, and food. A typical May can see 80,000 visitors from across the country come to Magee Marsh Wildlife Area to witness the spectacle of the spring migration. Magee Marsh Wildlife Area is listed as one of the top 10 bird watching spots in the country.

Birders and others who enjoy nature and want to help fund conservation in Ohio can now purchase the 2016 Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp. This year’s collectible stamp features a Common Buckeye butterfly. The sale of the Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp benefits the Wildlife Diversity Fund, which is used to protect and manage wild animals and their habitats. The stamp may be purchased at wildoihio.gov or any license agent.

OOS is a statewide organization devoted to fostering a deeper appreciation of birds, fellowship and collaboration in advancing our collective knowledge, and ability to speak with one voice to preserve Ohio’s bird habitats.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.

Staff report

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