Big Island Wildlife Area

Ohio · Midwest

ChallengingView on eBird
Habitat
CoastalWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Big Island Wildlife Area is a productive birding destination in Ohio, with 276 species recorded on eBird. This coastal and wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Tundra Swan, and Wood Duck 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

Eurasian Wigeon

Mareca penelope

3/6/2026Delaware Wildlife Area--Panhandle Rd.1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

3393/4/2026

Trumpeter Swan

273/4/2026

Tundra Swan

1163/4/2026

Wood Duck

63/4/2026

Northern Shoveler

133/4/2026

Gadwall

183/4/2026

American Wigeon

93/4/2026

Mallard

2323/4/2026

American Black Duck

43/4/2026

Northern Pintail

7503/4/2026

Green-winged Teal

83/4/2026

Canvasback

43/4/2026

Redhead

643/4/2026

Ring-necked Duck

873/4/2026

Greater Scaup

123/4/2026

Lesser Scaup

1213/4/2026

Hooded Merganser

173/4/2026

Common Merganser

23/4/2026

Red-breasted Merganser

103/4/2026

Ruddy Duck

43/4/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  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 Big Island Wildlife Area for birding?
The best months to visit Big Island Wildlife Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Big Island Wildlife Area?
Notable species at Big Island Wildlife Area include Canada Goose, Tundra Swan, Wood Duck, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall. The area supports coastal, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Big Island Wildlife Area?
Birding at Big Island Wildlife Area is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Big Island Wildlife Area?
Big Island Wildlife Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.