Birding is a form of recreation that anyone can do outdoors. Five Rivers MetroParks offers many areas to bird watch in its parks and conservation areas. As you develop your bird-watching skills, you will become more aware of the sounds and sights of birds, in addition to surrounding habitat, geography, season and weather events that can help you recognize birds around you.

Featured Birding

MetroParks Birding Challenge

Over 450 species of birds can be found in Ohio, and they need our support so they can thrive. Join the Five Rivers MetroParks Birding Challenge today to contribute to important citizen science projects and help birds in your own backyard! With 30 tasks to choose from, the challenge has something everyone will enjoy.

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Germantown MetroPark

7101 Conservancy Rd., Germantown, OH 45327 Directions >

Germantown MetroPark – designated by the National Audubon Society as an Important Bird Area – is considered one of the best spots to bird based on its quality of habitat and the number of species that can be spotted. Species range from raptors, such as red-tailed hawks and American kestrels, to smaller birds, such as warblers and the northern parula. This MetroPark is an important “rest stop” for migratory birds as they navigate north in the spring and fly back south in the fall.

Germantown Window on Wildlife

6910 Boomershine Rd., Germantown, OH 45327 Directions >

The Window on Wildlife at Germantown MetroPark’s Twin Valley Welcome Center features a bird blind and feeders. Presented by Wild Birds Unlimited of Kettering & Huber Heights, visitors can also experience interpretive signage at the bird blind that helps beginner birders learn how to spot different types of birds. Species such as gold finches, tufted titmice and pileated woodpeckers can be seen here. If you’re up for a hike, there is also a bird blind on the 1.6-mile silver trail in the park.

Englewood MetroPark

Englewood MetroPark is one of the best birding sites in the area. Approximately 90% of all species seen in the Dayton area have been observed in Englewood MetroPark, likely due to the presence of mudflats that supply worms, crayfish and other food sources. The Benedict Blincoe Wildlife Observation Area features a large wetland that was formed after the shallow lake filled with silt from the Stillwater River. Migrating birds, such as sandhill cranes, can be seen feeding there during the spring and fall. Other birds in this park include owls, eagles, warblers, great blue herons, belted kingfishers, a variety of ducks, cedar waxwings and Baltimore orioles. Beavers, muskrats and raccoons also visit to find food.

Every birdwatcher should know about the wildlife viewing area at Englewood MetroPark. Since the low dam was removed from the Stillwater River, populations of fish species have increased and diversified, growing the populations of existing avian species such as green and blue herons, raptors and waterfowl.

Woodman Fen

2409 Newcastle Drive, Dayton OH 45420 Directions >

This 37-acre natural area contains a rare groundwater-fed, alkaline wetland known as a “fen.” Fens contain thick deposits of peat and support many rare plants. Restoring the fen has included planting more than 100 species of native wetland plants. This unique and ancient wetland dates to the last ice age, 13,000 years ago. The .6-mile natural surface trail loops the fen and features some of the best birding opportunities in the region. Its ecosystem supports a colorful array of birds in a very small area.

Huffman Prairie

Huffman prairie became a State Natural Landmark in 1986 thanks to the dedication of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Five Rivers MetroParks and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Working together, we care for and protect 112 acres of one of the largest tallgrass prairie remnants in Ohio. This special place is home to many rare native prairie plants, birds and insects. Bobolinks and Henslow’s sparrows nest there, along with 200 species of moths and 30 species of butterflies. Ohio’s endangered green snake also makes its home here but may be difficult to spot. As you arrive, watch for the quick movements of the 13-lined ground squirrel burrowing near the 1905 hangar replica.

Eastwood MetroPark

1385 Harshman Rd., Dayton, OH 45431 Directions >

Few creatures have such aerial grace and majesty as the bald eagle. It’s not uncommon for pairs of them to make Dayton their nesting grounds, returning year after year. You can often see bald eagles and other fishing birds like osprey at Eastwood MetroPark because of Five Rivers MetroParks’ conservation practices. By maintaining substantial tracts of healthy, viable habitat, the area is attractive to larger birds who need more space to hunt. Bring binoculars or a spotting scope to zoom in on any nests you may see

Getting Started

Birdwatching is an activity open to all ages and abilities and can be done almost anywhere. Get started by going outside, listening for birds and using their sounds as a guide. While they aren’t necessary, binoculars can help you get a closer look so you can see each bird’s unique physical characteristics and behaviors. Check out our resources to learn more about identifying birds and how you can get involved in birding communities. Five Rivers MetroParks also hosts several programs that can help develop your birding skills.

Before doing any outdoor activity, it is important to plan ahead and follow Leave No Trace. Be sure to dress for the weather and bring items that will help you stay comfortable during your outing. These may include sun protection, bug spray, snacks, water and appropriate gear. Always remember to respect wildlife at a distance and pack out what you bring in. This keeps natural spaces safe for all species, including other humans. Learn more about Leave No Trace principles at lnt.org.

Programs & Events

Prairie Seed Collecting
Paint-A-Park
Migrating Bird Walk
Backyard Naturalist Training
Landscape Lessons: Fall Color in the Garden
Hiking for Older Adults: Eastwood MetroPark
Woodpecker Watch
Nighttime Exploration
Birds of Prey
Owl Walk
Owls of Ohio
Fall Nature Walk

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Programs & Events

Birding Challenge

March 1 - November 9

Birding provides countless ways to learn about and experience the world around you. Complete challenge activities between Mar. 1 and Nov. 9 for your chance to win fun, bird-themed prizes.

Join the Five Rivers MetroParks Birding Challenge today to contribute to important citizen science projects and help birds in your own backyard! With 30 tasks to choose from, the challenge has something everyone will enjoy.

Learn More

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Birding Resources

Helpful links to enhance your birding experience

Ohio Department of Natural Resources has field guides and checklists specific to birds in Ohio. We recommend the Common Birds of Ohio field guide in particular.
eBird
Merlin Bird ID
Cornell Lab of Ornithology
Aullwood Audubon
Audubon Miami Valley
Dayton Audubon Society
Ohio Young Birders Club – Southwest Chapter

Birding & Bird Watching