5 days Ago By Colton Hayes
Birdwatchers in Ohio have something to chirp about, as the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife pairs up with Ohio Sea Grant to launch an updated Ohio Lake Erie Birding Trail Guidebook. The guidebook, which lays out premium bird-watching spots along the Lake Erie coastline, was presented at the annual Ohio Wildlife Diversity Conference last Wednesday, and avid birders can now access it online or pick up print copies at various birding events throughout the year, as reported by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.The significance of birding in Ohio cannot be understated.
It draws in throngs from around the world annually, many of whom flock to the Lake Erie Birding Trail. This spring ritual pours roughly $40 million into the local economies along Lake Erie's shores. The broader impact of wildlife viewing in Ohio cannot be ignored either, with enthusiasts contributing a hefty $1.
6 billion in spending back in 2022. Bird species are as abundant as they are varied, with over 400 varieties recorded in the state.According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), the guidebook is not just a directory of locations but also a resource for those looking to fully immerse themselves in the birding experience.
It features details that rookie birders and seasoned ornithologists will find useful in tracking and appreciating Ohio's feathered residents and visitors.Understanding the economic and cultural significance of birdwatching in Ohio, the ODNR Division of Wildlife and Ohio Sea Grant's collaborative effort on the birding guidebook is a testament to the state's commitment to ecotourism and conservation. And it's not just the birding enthusiasts who benefit; local economies spread their wings with the influx of visitors ready to spend on lodging, food, and more every year.
For bird aficionados and the communities they visit, it's a win-win situation, or perhaps better said, a wing-wing situation..
