Two swans relax near tall grasses.

Howard Marsh Metropark

Ohio · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

Entrance Fee

Free

Hours

Open daily, 7 AM - dark

About This Location

Howard Marsh Metropark is a productive birding destination in Ohio, with 260 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, and Killdeer 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

Greater White-fronted Goose

Anser albifrons

4/14/2026Howard Marsh Metropark2 observed

Orange-crowned Warbler

Leiothlypis celata

4/14/2026Waterway Road1 observed

Neotropic Cormorant

Nannopterum brasilianum

4/14/2026Bay View Park1 observed

Little Blue Heron

Egretta caerulea

4/14/2026Elliston Rd. @ Veler Rd.1 observed

Common Yellowthroat

Geothlypis trichas

4/13/2026Erie Marsh Preserve/Gun Club (no access Sep 1-Jan 1)1 observed

Black-necked Stilt

Himantopus mexicanus

4/13/2026Erie Marsh Preserve/Gun Club (no access Sep 1-Jan 1)3 observed

Tundra Swan

Cygnus columbianus

4/13/2026Magee Marsh--Entrance Road4 observed

Chimney Swift

Chaetura pelagica

4/13/2026Magee Marsh--Causeway Marshes (Ottawa Co.)3 observed

Tricolored Heron

Egretta tricolor

4/13/2026Erie Marsh Preserve/Gun Club (no access Sep 1-Jan 1)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

124/15/2026

Blue-winged Teal

124/15/2026

Northern Shoveler

44/15/2026

Gadwall

124/15/2026

Mallard

24/15/2026

Green-winged Teal

284/15/2026

Hooded Merganser

24/15/2026

American Coot

124/15/2026

Sandhill Crane

14/15/2026

Black-necked Stilt

44/15/2026

Killdeer

64/15/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

14/15/2026

Great Egret

24/15/2026

Great Blue Heron

14/15/2026

Osprey

14/15/2026

Bald Eagle

24/15/2026

Tree Swallow

214/15/2026

Barn Swallow

34/15/2026

American Tree Sparrow

34/15/2026

Song Sparrow

14/15/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  3. 3

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

  4. 4

    Bring insect repellent — wetland areas can have significant mosquito activity, especially in warmer months.

  5. 5

    Bring quality optics — a good pair of binoculars (8x42 or 10x42) makes all the difference in species identification.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Howard Marsh Metropark for birding?
The best months to visit Howard Marsh Metropark for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Howard Marsh Metropark?
Notable species at Howard Marsh Metropark include Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, Killdeer, Song Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, Trumpeter Swan, Tundra Swan, American Woodcock, Wood Duck, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Mallard. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Howard Marsh Metropark?
Birding at Howard Marsh Metropark is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
Is there an entrance fee at Howard Marsh Metropark?
There is no entrance fee at Howard Marsh Metropark. Hours: Open daily, 7 AM - dark.
What amenities are available at Howard Marsh Metropark?
Howard Marsh Metropark offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails.