a turtle swimming in a body of water

Metzger Marsh Wildlife Area

Ohio · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

Entrance Fee

Free

Hours

Open daily, dawn to dusk

About This Location

Metzger Marsh Wildlife Area is a productive birding destination in Ohio, with 294 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mute Swan, and Trumpeter 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

Glossy Ibis

Plegadis falcinellus

6/1/2026Metzger Marsh--Causeway Viewing Areas2 observed

Magnolia Warbler

Setophaga magnolia

6/1/2026Ottawa NWR--Crane Creek Estuary (Lucas Co.)1 observed

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Corthylio calendula

5/31/2026Magee Marsh--Visitor Center and Trails1 observed

White-faced Ibis

Plegadis chihi

5/30/2026Metzger Marsh--Causeway Viewing Areas1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

26/1/2026

Trumpeter Swan

16/1/2026

Black Tern

46/1/2026

Common Tern

66/1/2026

Great Egret

36/1/2026

Great Blue Heron

46/1/2026

American White Pelican

16/1/2026

Eastern Kingbird

16/1/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

46/1/2026

Tree Swallow

46/1/2026

Barn Swallow

26/1/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

326/1/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

186/1/2026

Common Grackle

246/1/2026

Common Yellowthroat

36/1/2026

Northern Yellow Warbler

36/1/2026

Wood Duck

36/1/2026

Mallard

26/1/2026

Sandhill Crane

26/1/2026

Black-necked Stilt

186/1/2026

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 Metzger Marsh Wildlife Area for birding?
The best months to visit Metzger Marsh Wildlife Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Metzger Marsh Wildlife Area?
Notable species at Metzger Marsh Wildlife Area include Canada Goose, Mute Swan, Trumpeter Swan, Tundra Swan, Gadwall, American Woodcock, Wood Duck, American Wigeon, Mallard, Northern Pintail, Canvasback, Redhead. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Metzger Marsh Wildlife Area?
Birding at Metzger Marsh Wildlife Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
Is there an entrance fee at Metzger Marsh Wildlife Area?
There is no entrance fee at Metzger Marsh Wildlife Area. Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk.
What amenities are available at Metzger Marsh Wildlife Area?
Metzger Marsh Wildlife Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.