Geauga Park District hosting a ‘bird sit’ on World Migratory Bird Day

Geauga Park District will be hosting a “bird sit” — a time for nature lovers to stay in one spot and record all the birds seen and heard for a period of time — on World Migratory Bird Day, May 18.

Those interested in taking part are invited to gather at the observation deck at the park district’s newest park, Troy Wetlands, and sit for as little or long as they’d like between 6:30 and 11:30 a.m. to help tally spring bird life with Naturalist Linda Gilbert, according to a news release.

As of April 30, Troy Wetlands had accrued the highest number of bird species sighted in Geauga County, 123, according to eBird.com, an honor usually reserved for LaDue Reservoir which is at 111 species, the release stated.

“Troy’s combination of wetlands and forest provide habitat for a great variety of birds, and its boardwalks and viewing platform give us fantastic vantage points to see all there is to see,” the district stated in the release.

Participants school-aged and older should plan to dress for the weather and bring a chair, binoculars, a camera and whatever else is needed for comfort and relaxation. No registration is needed.

Troy Wetlands is located at 18725 Claridon-Troy Road in Troy Township.

It is recommended attendees check the park district’s website before coming out in the event of heavy rain or storms that result in cancellation. Signs will be posted en route to the observation deck.