Bird watching has been a favorite pastime for many people throughout the years. With spring fast approaching, now is the best time to familiarize yourself with some of the beautiful birds that are local to your area. Bethel, OH’s go-to garden and pet supplies company, Bethel Feed & Supply Pet & Garden Center, shares a brief guide to the various types of birds you could encounter during the upcoming spring season.   

A Guide to Ohio’s Springtime Birds

The spring season considered to be the best time to view birds. Though winters in Ohio are cold and long, the first signs of the new season are often visible in February while the temperatures are still low. Waterfowl are usually the earliest indicators of the impending spring. The American goldeneye and drakes begin their mating rituals during this month. Also during February, you may notice female great horned owls sitting on their eggs.

It is during March that the springtime birds clearly begin to emerge. Thanks to the thawing wetlands and marshes, dabbling ducks like the green-winged teal and American wigeon start to make appearances. You can spot raptors flying toward the north, and across Lake Erie, you can find plenty of red-shouldered hawks in flight with other species.

The migration of birds continues throughout April, bringing in other species in higher numbers. The black-throated green warbler and blue-gray gnatcatcher frequent the area of Hocking Hills. This is also the month when broad-winged hawks and wild turkeys make a reappearance in the wild.

For many birdwatchers, May is the best month in the spring to view local birds. A vast variety of colorful birds flood the state during this time. Some common species include tanagers, warblers, orioles, rose-breasted grosbeaks, and American redstarts. In May, there could be over 20 different types of warblers alone.

This spring, don’t miss out on the beauty of the local birds in your area. Bethel Feed & Supply Pet & Garden Center not only has the wild bird seed you’ll need to keep your feathered friends nourished, but they also offer dog and livestock supplies, horse feed, and other items to keep your animals well fed and happy. Call today at (513) 734-2246 to inquire about pet supplies, or visit them online for more information.