As the snow melts and warmer days return to Crawford County, so does the excitement of spring birdwatching. April and May mark the peak of migration season, making it one of the best times of year to explore the county’s diverse landscapes and witness an incredible variety of birds returning, nesting, and passing through on their way north.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just starting out, spring in Crawford County is full of color, song, and activity—and the perfect opportunity to get outside and reconnect with nature.
Birds to Look For This Spring
During April and May, Crawford County becomes a busy stopover for migrating species and a home base for year-round residents building nests. Keep an eye (and ear) out for:
Migratory Songbirds
- Warblers: Dozens of species pass through in vibrant plumage, including Yellow Warblers, Blackburnian Warblers, and Black-throated Green Warblers.
- Baltimore Orioles: Bright orange and black, these showstoppers love tall trees and fruit feeders.
- Rose-breasted Grosbeaks: With their distinctive red chest patch, they’re hard to miss at backyard feeders and forest edges.
- Scarlet Tanagers: Brilliant red bodies with black wings make them a prize sighting in wooded areas.
Waterfowl & Shorebirds
- Wood Ducks: One of the most colorful ducks, often found nesting in wooded wetlands.
- Great Blue Herons: These tall, graceful birds return to the waterways and marshes.
- Sandpipers and Yellowlegs: Seen along muddy shores and wetlands during migration.
Raptors
- Ospreys: Look for these fish-loving birds near lakes and rivers.
- Broad-winged Hawks: Returning from Central and South America, they can be spotted soaring high overhead.
Where to Birdwatch in Crawford County This Spring
Pymatuning State Park & Spillway
With its mix of open water, wetlands, and woodlands, Pymatuning is a spring migration hotspot. Scan the skies for eagles and ospreys, and the water’s edge for waterfowl and shorebirds.
Conneaut Marsh
As one of the largest inland marshes in Pennsylvania, Conneaut Marsh is a must-visit. Boardwalks and observation areas offer excellent views of waterfowl, wading birds, and songbirds.
Ernst Trail
Ernst Trail is a flat, easy-access trail near Meadville runs through wetlands and forests, making it ideal for spotting warblers, orioles, and nesting woodpeckers.
Woodcock Lake Park
Surrounded by wooded areas and open fields, Woodcock Lake Park attracts a variety of songbirds and raptors in the spring months.
Tips for Spring Birdwatching
- Go early: Dawn is the best time to catch birds feeding and singing.
- Bring binoculars and a field guide: Spring plumage makes identifying species easier, and a guidebook can help confirm your sightings.
- Listen carefully: Many birds announce their presence with distinctive songs. Apps like Merlin Bird ID can help identify birds by sound.
- Check migration reports: Local birding groups and online trackers can alert you to rare or notable sightings.
- Stay on trails: Protect nesting areas by keeping to marked paths and observing from a distance.
Make Birdwatching Part of Your Spring Adventure
With so many species on the move and Crawford County’s rich variety of habitats, spring birdwatching is a rewarding way to experience the season’s natural beauty. Whether you’re strolling a forest trail, sitting quietly by the marsh, or watching feeders from your own backyard, there’s always something new to discover.
Grab your binoculars and see who’s arriving this spring!