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

Red-necked Phalarope

Phalaropus lobatus

7/20/2026Erie Marsh Preserve/Gun Club (no access Sep 1-Jan 1)1 observed

Black-necked Stilt

Himantopus mexicanus

7/20/2026Erie Marsh Preserve/Gun Club (no access Sep 1-Jan 1)1 observed

Wilson's Phalarope

Phalaropus tricolor

7/20/2026Erie Marsh Preserve/Gun Club (no access Sep 1-Jan 1)1 observed

Northern Pintail

Anas acuta

7/20/2026Erie Marsh Preserve/Gun Club (no access Sep 1-Jan 1)1 observed

Northern Shoveler

Spatula clypeata

7/20/2026Erie Marsh Preserve/Gun Club (no access Sep 1-Jan 1)2 observed

Dark-eyed Junco

Junco hyemalis

7/19/2026Home W. Velliquette Rd1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Graylag Goose

17/20/2026

Canada Goose

1257/20/2026

Blue-winged Teal

17/20/2026

Mallard

17/20/2026

Mourning Dove

27/20/2026

Common Gallinule

17/20/2026

Black-necked Stilt

137/20/2026

Killdeer

117/20/2026

Short-billed Dowitcher

57/20/2026

Lesser Yellowlegs

137/20/2026

Least Sandpiper

37/20/2026

Semipalmated Sandpiper

27/20/2026

Ring-billed Gull

537/20/2026

Caspian Tern

337/20/2026

Common Tern

67/20/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

47/20/2026

Black-crowned Night Heron

27/20/2026

Snowy Egret

27/20/2026

Great Egret

177/20/2026

Great Blue Heron

57/20/2026

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.