Coastal birding habitat

Big Island Wildlife Area - North of LaRue-Prospect Road

Ohio · Midwest

Habitat
CoastalWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Big Island Wildlife Area - North of LaRue-Prospect Road is a productive birding destination in Ohio, with 250 species recorded on eBird. This coastal and wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, and Tundra Swan among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Bell's Vireo

Vireo bellii

7/16/2026Killdeer Plains Wildlife Area1 observed

Blue Grosbeak

Passerina caerulea

7/13/2026Marion Tallgrass Trail--Marion Community Foundation Lake1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Trumpeter Swan

27/14/2026

Wood Duck

47/14/2026

Mallard

27/14/2026

Mourning Dove

177/14/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

17/14/2026

Killdeer

17/14/2026

Lesser Yellowlegs

17/14/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

87/14/2026

Great Blue Heron

57/14/2026

Bald Eagle

17/14/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

17/14/2026

Belted Kingfisher

27/14/2026

Downy Woodpecker

17/14/2026

Willow Flycatcher

47/14/2026

Eastern Kingbird

17/14/2026

Bank Swallow

17/14/2026

Tree Swallow

27/14/2026

Purple Martin

17/14/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

17/14/2026

Barn Swallow

157/14/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  3. 3

    Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Big Island Wildlife Area - North of LaRue-Prospect Road for birding?
The best months to visit Big Island Wildlife Area - North of LaRue-Prospect Road for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Big Island Wildlife Area - North of LaRue-Prospect Road?
Notable species at Big Island Wildlife Area - North of LaRue-Prospect Road include Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Tundra Swan, Gadwall, American Wigeon. The area supports coastal, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Big Island Wildlife Area - North of LaRue-Prospect Road?
Birding at Big Island Wildlife Area - North of LaRue-Prospect Road is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Big Island Wildlife Area - North of LaRue-Prospect Road?
Big Island Wildlife Area - North of LaRue-Prospect Road offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.