Penitentiary Glen Reservation

Ohio · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Penitentiary Glen Reservation is a productive birding destination in Ohio, with 202 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Pine Siskin, Red-bellied Woodpecker, and Hairy Woodpecker 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

Gray Catbird

Dumetella carolinensis

3/6/2026Lake Erie Bluffs Metropark--Lane Rd.1 observed

Cackling Goose

Branta hutchinsii

3/2/2026Pickle Bills Grand River1 observed

Ross's Goose

Anser rossii

2/28/2026Veterans Park, Mentor1 observed

Greater White-fronted Goose

Anser albifrons

2/28/2026Headlands Beach SP--Shipman Pond4 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Pine Siskin

32/26/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

12/25/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

12/25/2026

Blue Jay

62/25/2026

American Crow

42/25/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

22/25/2026

Tufted Titmouse

62/25/2026

Eastern Bluebird

42/25/2026

American Robin

32/25/2026

House Sparrow

32/25/2026

House Finch

62/25/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

62/25/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

12/25/2026

Northern Cardinal

62/25/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan fence posts and utility wires for perching raptors and kingbirds.

  2. 2

    Walk field edges at dawn when sparrows and grassland species are most vocal.

  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 Penitentiary Glen Reservation for birding?
The best months to visit Penitentiary Glen Reservation for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Penitentiary Glen Reservation?
Notable species at Penitentiary Glen Reservation include Pine Siskin, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Blue Jay, American Crow. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Penitentiary Glen Reservation?
Birding at Penitentiary Glen Reservation is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Penitentiary Glen Reservation?
Penitentiary Glen Reservation offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.