- Allen
- Auglaize
- Crawford
- Darke
- Defiance
- Erie
- Fulton
- Hancock
- Hardin
- Henry
- Huron
- Logan
- Lorain
- Lucas
- Mercer
- Morrow
- Ottawa
- Paulding
- Putnam
- Richland
- Sandusky
- Seneca
- Shelby
- Van Wert
- Williams
- Wood
- Wyandot
Some consider Magee Marsh Wildlife Area THE BEST place to observe the annual migration of songbirds anywhere in North America. That's why every year during the month of May, 1000s of visitors migrate to this 2,202-acre marsh. It is all that is left of the Great Black Swamp that once existed through most of northwest Ohio.
Magee Marsh is located just 17 miles west of Port Clinton on SR 2 and about 10 miles north of Oak Harbor, The area was permanently secure by the Ohio Division of Wildlife in 1951 as a preserve that maintains the area and protects the pristine wetlands from development. In the late 1800s the area was prime hunting grounds for wealthy sportsmen that spared no effort to obtain the best hunting sites.
Each year the annual birding festival lasts about 10 days in early May which attracts 1000s of visitors from around the world. This event is for both beginner and advanced bird watchers and includes demonstrations, guided bird walks and plenty of opportunities for photographing. Be warned: large crowds can make viewing difficult at certain times. Be patient.
The Sportmen's Migratory Bird Center gives visitors an insight into Magee Marsh with a large number of displays such as waterfowl decoys; a wildlife habitat display featuring more than 300 mounted animal specimens; children's touch-table and activity center with treasures from the marsh; and aquarums and terrariums filled with native fishes, reptiles, and amphibians. The center is open and free to the public during regular hours.
Outside, a walking trail offers the chance to look for fish, frogs, and turtles around adjacent ponds and a 40-foot observation tower that provides a bird's eye view of the immediate area and an overview of the marsh.
Parking areas on the lake side provide convenient access to the shoreline. No swimming is permitted however.
Magee Marsh Wild Life Area's Bald Eagles
The Magee Marsh Wild Life areas has been blessed for a number of years with nesting pairs of American bald eagles. During this nesting period certain trails are closed to provide the best breeding conditions. These trails are usually closed for a period of 3 months starting in mid March. However, the eagles are often seen throughout the marsh when they're not actively tending their nests.
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