MOUNT VERNON — Join the Knox County Park District to participate in “Birding the Great Migration” on Saturday at 8 a.m. at the Wolf Run Park parking lot. The park is at 17621 Yauger Road, just east of Upper Gilchrist Road.
Former Metro Parks naturalists Gary Moore and Chris Toops will combine over 75 years of experience and trained ears to find migrating birds by sight and sound. Following a brief introduction with suggestions on binoculars, scopes and bird field guides, the group will walk a mile trail in search of different species.
“Bird watching has become one of the fastest growing outdoor hobbies in America,” said Moore. “We have chosen what may be the peak time to enjoy this annual phenomenon at its best. Many people are amazed to learn that over 300 species of birds are recorded for Ohio, or that sometimes 50 to 100 can be seen during one peak migration day.”
Participants are encouraged to dress for the weather and bring binoculars if available, but binoculars will be available for use. Bird checklists and new pamphlets with color photos of Ohio birds including warblers will be provided. The program is open to all skill levels and ages, but probably best suited for birders 7 years and older.
“Although just on the edge of town and easily accessible, Wolf Run represents nearly 300 acres of varied habitat that includes forest, field and stream habitats for many wildlife species that local residents can enjoy watching,” said Kim Marshall, park district director. For more information, call 392-7275 or visit KnoxCountyParks.org on the web.
Published on May 4, 2011