On this mild, sunny day in Northeast Ohio, I decided to revisit the Kent State Wetlands in the southeast corner of the KSU Campus. A mosaic of ponds, cattail marshes and mixed woodlands, the preserve is accessed by a hike-bike trail that leads to and from the University.
The major pond was still mostly ice-covered and waterfowl were limited to Canada geese and mallards. A pair of red-shouldered hawks and a lone red-tailed hawk patrolled the refuge, where the usual mix of winter songbirds moved among the trees and shrubs. Though sightings were limited, the pleasant weather and attractive ecosystem were rewarding enough.
Just a few miles from my wife's family cottage, the wetlands will surely be a regular destination in years to come. Experienced birders and naturalists come to learn that favored areas for exploration are often close to home, partly due to convenience and partly due to their ecologic diversity.
The major pond was still mostly ice-covered and waterfowl were limited to Canada geese and mallards. A pair of red-shouldered hawks and a lone red-tailed hawk patrolled the refuge, where the usual mix of winter songbirds moved among the trees and shrubs. Though sightings were limited, the pleasant weather and attractive ecosystem were rewarding enough.
Just a few miles from my wife's family cottage, the wetlands will surely be a regular destination in years to come. Experienced birders and naturalists come to learn that favored areas for exploration are often close to home, partly due to convenience and partly due to their ecologic diversity.
