As soon as the click of the key turning in the lock gives me away, I can already hear the repetitive chirp coming from behind the building in the outdoor compound. This is how Missy, one of our red-tailed hawk educational ambassadors, greets me every morning. During my nearly 20 years with Great Parks, I’ve […]

What’s 2-4 inches long, has an impressive set of pincers and could be lurking in a creek near you? It’s a hellgrammite! I wouldn’t be surprised if you’ve never encountered one of these interesting critters, even if you spend much of your time outside. These secretive aquatic insect larvae (the juvenile stage of the dobsonfly) […]

Nature is full of mysteries. Through scientific discovery, some myths can be dispelled regarding a few of our local critters. Which of these “untruths” have you believed? Myth: Nocturnal animals are never active in the daytime There are at least three animals that prove this myth false. Owls will call to announce their territorial boundaries […]

While out on a bird hike recently with a group of homeschool students, we discovered something very cool: a blue-gray gnatcatcher and its nest! Blue-gray gnatcatchers make a very unique nest with lichens from trees and use spider webs to put it all together. The nests have wonderful camouflage and can often be difficult to […]

Canada geese are a pretty common site in Great Parks. Lots of lakes and greenspace provide a perfect spot for these large gray-bodied birds to raise their young. But the geese aren’t completely protected, and still have to be on the watch against cars, people, predators and other dangers. Each spring, Canada geese break into […]

Most people consider wildflowers to be the sign of spring. I, however, listen for the sound of “gobbling” on the wind to herald the season of renewal in Ohio. By this I mean, it’s time to talk some turkey! The wild turkey is one of Ohio’s largest bird species and can stand up to four […]

Last week, I decided to join the volunteer program with Great Parks. My first task was standing next to the trail at Winton Woods with all my birding gear, including a powerful spotting scope and field guides. Standing in front of the great blue heron colony, called a rookery, I was on the trail to […]

Snowy winters can be a great time to get outside and see wildlife. Although some animals are less active in the winter, one advantage to the season is the ability to track their movements in the snow. It’s also a fun reason to get outside in the winter while keeping your mind off the cold. […]