Hoover Reservoir

Ohio · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Hoover Reservoir is a productive birding destination in Ohio, with 232 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Gadwall, Mallard, and Common Goldeneye 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

Neotropic Cormorant

Nannopterum brasilianum

3/6/2026Hoover Nature Preserve--Oxbow Rd.1 observed

Eurasian Wigeon

Mareca penelope

3/6/2026Delaware Wildlife Area--Panhandle Rd.1 observed

Osprey

Pandion haliaetus

3/6/2026Hoover Nature Preserve--Area N1 observed

Red-throated Loon

Gavia stellata

3/5/2026Alum Creek SP--Marina2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Gadwall

22/28/2026

Mallard

132/28/2026

Common Goldeneye

132/28/2026

Hooded Merganser

42/28/2026

Common Merganser

182/28/2026

Ring-billed Gull

2/28/2026

American Herring Gull

62/28/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

52/28/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  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 Hoover Reservoir for birding?
The best months to visit Hoover Reservoir for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Hoover Reservoir?
Notable species at Hoover Reservoir include Gadwall, Mallard, Common Goldeneye, Hooded Merganser, Common Merganser. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Hoover Reservoir?
Birding at Hoover Reservoir is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Hoover Reservoir?
Hoover Reservoir offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.