Connect with Nature in Trumbull County

Bald eagles soaring near their nests. Yellow and gray prothonotary warblers darting up tree trunks. Wood ducks bobbing their heads in the water, iridescent feathers shimmering in the sun. These are just a few of the sights you'll see when you immerse yourself in the woodlands and waterways of Trumbull County.

Whether you're a seasoned pro with a pair of binoculars stashed in your car and a field notebook in your pocket, or just a curious traveler looking to connect to nature, Trumbull County is an ideal location for birding. Bald eagles, golden eagles, indigo buntings, scarlet tanagers, sandhill cranes and pileated woodpeckers are some of the many birds that can be spotted in the county.

"We have an extraordinary variety of species here because we have such a large body of water in Mosquito Creek Wildlife Area," says Jamey Emmert, communications specialist for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. "We get waterfowl who come for the lake and other birds who come here to stop and replenish. Some of the best times to see birds are the worst days for humans. If it's nasty outside, that's a good time to see ducks and other waterfowl."

Drawn to the Skies

If you're a serious birder, it won't take much convincing to add Trumbull County to your travel list — read on to discover area hot spots. If you love the outdoors and are planning a visit to the area, here are a few reasons why birding is the perfect excursion:

Birding encourages you to take things slow and connect with nature. Often, swept up in the hustle and bustle of life, we can move so quickly that we miss out on amazing things. Choosing to walk slowly and quietly will help you stay present in the moment, giving you the chance to observe amazing things and rejuvenate your physical and mental health.

This free activity requires no experience, little to no supplies, and can be done anywhere and anytime! Though binoculars will help you get a closer look at these feathered creatures, they are not required. You can bird by listening for distinct calls echoing in the trees or observing with your naked eye.

From kids to adults, birding is for all ages. If you're hiking with young kids, teaching them to use binoculars can be a fun activity to keep them engaged. Learning to recognize different species can be an entertaining pastime for all ages.

Larry Richardson, former Ohio State Park Ranger and Lake Erie Nature and Science Center executive director, has been birding for 51 years. He's traveled around the U.S. and the world with his binoculars, observing the magnificence of migration and birds in diverse habitats. Yet despite his worldly destinations, Northeast Ohio remains one of his favorite spots to birdwatch.

"Trumbull County is an area that true birders really pay attention to," Richardson says. "Birds show up here that you just don't see elsewhere. You can see so many species here. From scrubby habitats to river environments, there are many great areas to explore."

The Mosquito Creek Wildlife Area is, first and foremost, a refuge. Depending on the season, you're likely to spot geese, ducks, ruffed grouse, ring-necked pheasants, warblers, and hawks in this wooded and marshy area. You might spot rare birds like a king rail or an African cattle egret. Although most roadways are open, the entire refuge portion of the site is closed to the public except during special events or by permit. A 1,500-acre tract of land on the northeast corner is open to the public for wildlife observation. We encourage you to contact ODNR for more information on access to this unique reserve.

Bird photographer Nick Kerosky recommends the area as a place to see and photograph various birds. "The vast Mosquito Creek Wildlife and Wilderness areas offer excellent opportunities to see bald eagles, osprey, and other raptors, as well as warblers migrating through the area," Kerosky shared in a blog post on birding in Trumbull County. "The hiking trail at Lakeview Recreation Area (LRA) in the south is my favorite to see warblers and other migrating birds in the spring."

At Mosquito Lake State Park, explore four trails that hug the lakeshore and expand through the woods with numerous areas for birders to explore. Keep an eye out for red-throated loons, sparrows, and uncommon birds like the yellow-bellied sapsucker and hairy woodpecker.

Venture near the campground and the lake. You may spot some nesting jars that bird lover Lloyd Marshall and other volunteers put out for prothonotary warblers. The bright yellow and gray warblers are one of several cavity nesters east of the Mississippi River.

"They like shady, swampy areas like we have here at Mosquito Lake," says Marshall. "We put out about 20 nesting jars for them in the summer. Sometimes we even get a second brood to nest in them. We also do bluebird and purple martin boxes."

This flourishing state park isn't just a draw for birding. An 8.4-mile horse trail allows for riding and snowmobiling. The park also boasts small and large dog parks and a dog swim area. If you didn't bring any four-legged friends, there's also a recreation beach, fishing areas, nature play areas and disc golf.

Twelve ponds, over 30 marshes, and thousands of acres of flourishing wilderness act as a welcome mat for birds — and birders in the Grand River Wildlife Area. The Grand River Valley is one of the largest areas of semi-wilderness remaining in northeast Ohio. Even the most experienced outdoorsman should take precautions against becoming lost. You can spend time exploring this wildlife area and are likely to spot songbirds, wild turkeys, beavers, cottontail rabbits and more.