Whenever we get the chance to take a birding trip through Ohio and Niagara during spring migration, we never pass it up. Our 2019 excursion started with a bit of chaos—Sharon’s flight was nearly three hours late, giving Mike just enough time for a detour to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. We went straight from the airport to the famous Magee Marsh boardwalks, determined to squeeze in some birding before the sun set.
Magee Marsh & Howard Marsh
The 2019 weather was cold and breezy, making it less “birdy” than usual; at times, there seemed to be more birders than warblers on the boardwalks! Despite the chill, we managed to tally eleven warbler species in under two hours, including favorites like the Cape May, Magnolia, and Chestnut-sided Warblers. We also spotted a perfectly camouflaged Eastern Screech-Owl and a Sora, which was a new Ohio species for our list. Forty-four species in two hours? We’ll take that as a win.
The following morning, we headed to Howard Marsh Metropark. While the wind kept us mostly inside the car, we were rewarded with sightings of a Horned Lark, Caspian Terns, several ducks, and a variety of shorebirds. Later, a drive down Seaman Road—our target area—finally delivered six Tundra Swans.
Navigating the Floods
Lake Erie flooding made birding a challenge, with many of our favorite spots completely submerged. We navigated flooded roads carefully, eventually finding that Pipe Creek was inaccessible. However, the conditions didn’t stop the local wildlife; a nearby field offered great views of Baltimore Orioles and American Goldfinches, while the Barn and Tree Swallows put on a spectacular aerial show.
Niagara & The Road Home
Our brief stop at Niagara Falls was a complete “birding rainout.” We pivoted to the next best thing: the casino, where we scored free buffets just for signing up! The evening ended on a high note as we watched the incredible light show illuminating the falls from both the American and Canadian sides.
On our journey back to the Central Adirondacks, we made our usual pilgrimage to Matteson’s Market in Woodgate, New York. Inside their greenhouse, we watched a Ruby-throated Hummingbird buzzing around a specific plant. As a courtesy, we bought a different plant—and were delighted when a hummingbird came to visit our own home soon after! If you’re ever traveling on State Route 28, do yourself a favor and stop at Matteson’s for their famous baked goods and stuffed cabbage.
Every day is a new adventure. Whether we are on the bustling boardwalks of Magee Marsh or enjoying the quiet of our own backyard, we are constantly reminded of the endless beauty waiting to be discovered.
Trip Totals: 65 species • 12 year birds • 0 life birds
Next Up: Adirondack Yard Birds & Butterflies – explore the wings of Champlain and the heart of the Central ADKs!
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