Columbus, OH -- Ohio Governor Mike DeWine joined the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife today to celebrate Bird Ohio Day at Magee Marsh Wildlife Area.

“Northwest Ohio is a hotspot for migratory birds drawn here by Lake Erie and the surrounding wetland habitats,” said Governor DeWine. “Hundreds of bird species rely on this region for migration and breeding, and by protecting and restoring places like Magee Marsh we can keep their populations strong.”

A unique blend of wetlands, lake, and forested beach ridge habitat at Magee Marsh Wildlife Area is a tremendous asset to wildlife. Birding is a top attraction at Magee, but the area is also excellent for hunting, fishing, trapping, and many other outdoor activities. 

“Magee Marsh and the areas around it are world-famous birding destinations, and for good reason,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “Bird Ohio Day is a terrific time to highlight this and the tremendous economic benefits that stem from thousands of birders visiting the region each spring.”

In addition to Magee Marsh, public lands at Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge, Metzger Marsh Wildlife Area, Maumee Bay State Park, and Howard Marsh Metropark provide endless potential for visiting birders. These hotspots and more are top locations to enjoy migratory and resident birds, including warblers, bald eagles, trumpeter swans, and shorebirds.

“Bird Ohio Day is about celebrating not just the birds that draw us here but the partnerships that make conservation happen,” said Division of Wildlife Chief Kendra Wecker. “A positive example of this is the recent removal of trumpeter swans from the threatened species list, an accomplishment that would not be possible without collaboration and wetland restoration.”

Visitors to Magee Marsh Wildlife Area can bird along a variety of trails, including the well-known boardwalk. The recently renovated Magee Marsh Visitor Center allows guests to learn about the region’s conservation history, waterfowl hunting, bird migration, and much more through interactive displays and exhibits. The visitor center also has accessible bathrooms, a wildlife-viewing walkway around the building, and a gift shop operated by the Friends of Magee Marsh.

The Magee Marsh Visitor Center will welcome guests daily from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. during the Biggest Week in American Birding, which runs May 3 through May 12 in northwest Ohio. ODNR Division of Wildlife staff will be available to answer questions and provide information. The center is located at 13229 W. State Route 2, Oak Harbor, OH 43449.

Wildlife enthusiasts can support bird conservation by purchasing an Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp. All of the stamp’s proceeds go to wildlife conservation, with most benefitting species of greatest conservation need through the Wildlife Diversity Fund. This fund supports habitat restoration, wildlife and habitat research projects, creation of free wildlife educational materials, as well as efforts to restore and conserve endangered and threatened species. New this year, $1 from every stamp sold will go to the Southern Wings program, which protects the overwintering habitats of Neotropical migratory birds. The legacy stamp can be purchased online through Ohio's Wildlife Licensing System, at any location that sells hunting and fishing licenses, and at the Magee Marsh Visitor Center.