BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//The Audubon Society of Ohio - ECPv6.15.18//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:The Audubon Society of Ohio X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for The Audubon Society of Ohio REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20220313T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20221106T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20230312T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20231105T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20240310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20241103T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240225T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240225T120000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20240211T180330Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240211T180330Z UID:6713-1708851600-1708862400@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:Late Winter/Early Spring Nature Walk - Spring Grove Cemetery DESCRIPTION:Theme: Late Winter/Early Spring Nature Walk \nLocation: Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum \nDate: Sunday\, February 25\, 2024 \nMeet: At 9:00 A.M. at Spring Grove Cemetery. Park along the main road\, just beyond the tunnel from the main entrance on Spring Grove Avenue (see directions below). \nLeader: Denis Conover\, (513) 390-0863\, conovedg@hotmail.com \nSpring Grove Cemetery is one of Cincinnati’s most beautiful natural settings and its designation as an arboretum is well deserved. A tremendous diversity and number of plants can be found here. Spring Grove is also one of our areas better places to find birds. \nThe focus of this field trip will be a general nature walk with an obvious focus on plants and birds. Over the years our trip leader\, Denis Conover\, has become our go to guy when botany is the theme of our field trips and we are fortunate to have him share his knowledge with us. He is a professor in the department of Biological Sciences at the University of Cincinnati and has been involved in various types of botanical research since 1981. Denis also has a great interest in birds and will equally focus on them. Denis is also a board member of our local Audubon Society. Spring Grove Cemetery is one of Denis’s and ASO’s favorite spots and trips here are always popular. \nDenis’s plan is to take us on a long leisurely late winter/early spring walk through the cemetery observing plants and looking for birds and other wildlife. Winter resident and early spring migrant birds (maybe winter finches?)\, native and ornamental plantings\, invasive species\, shrubs and winter tree identification will all be pointed out\, identified and discussed.  Other than a short drive here or there to move to a different part of the grounds\, participants should be prepared for a few hours of being on foot and moderate walking. Much of the walking will be relatively flat and on pavement\, but there are a few low hills and there will also be some walking in wet grass (or possibly snow). It can be very cold in February so we suggest wearing warm layered clothing and comfortable waterproof footwear. Binoculars are necessary to see birds. Restrooms are available at the cemetery office. Severe weather will cancel this trip. If you are unsure\, or have any other questions concerning this trip\, feel free to contact Denis. \nDirections: The Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum main entrance is located at 4521 Spring Grove Avenue just west of the Winton Road intersection. To find our meeting spot\, drive in the Spring Grove Avenue main gates and go straight. You will go through a short tunnel (old RR archway). Just beyond the tunnel pull over and park alongside the road and look for Denis. \nSpring Grove Cemetery website: \nhttps://www.springgrove.org/locations/spring-grove-cemetery-arboretum/#hrs \nSpring Grove Cemetery Map: \nhttps://assets.takeshape.io/af54a46e-9d1d-4a13-84ea-ea820654ba30/dev/66f7f564-13e7-4da3-9599-d5fc44c9d764/Spring%20Grove%20Cemetery%20and%20Arboretum%20Map.pdf \n  \n(Contributed by Jay Stenger) \n  URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/late-winter-early-spring-nature-walk-spring-grove-cemetery/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240217T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240217T120000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20240211T180122Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240211T180122Z UID:6711-1708156800-1708171200@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:Early Spring Migration - East Fork DESCRIPTION:Early Spring Migration (especially waterfowl) \nLocation: East Fork State Park \nDate: Saturday\, February 17th\, 2024 \nMeet: 8:00 A.M. at the East Fork State Parks south Swimming Beach parking lot\, nearest the Pavilion (see the directions below). \nLeader: Bill Stanley\, (513) 324-2796\, tyrannus58@gmail.com \n  \nThe focus of this trip will be waterfowl\, gulls and other water birds. Many waterfowl winter in our region and the second half of February marks the beginning of spring waterfowl migration so we should find plenty of ducks of several different species at East Fork. Our trip leader\, Bill Stanley\, lives nearby and knows East Fork SP as well as anyone. He is also a long-time expert birder and skilled naturalist. Bill is a long time ASO advocate and has just recently become our newest board member. \nSince our focus will be on waterfowl and water birds\, Bills plan is to drive around the lake from one vantage point to another\, stopping and scanning for waterfowl and other birds at each spot.  A diverse number of other species are also expected on this trip and you can be sure that Bill won’t miss much. Winter residents will still be around as well as a few early migrants. There is a decent chance to find Red-headed Woodpeckers and raptors of several different species are also expected\, including Bald Eagles which now nest within the park. And there is always a chance for a rarity\, as East Fork has an excellent reputation in that regard\, particularly during migratory months. \nWhile most of the trip will consist of scanning the lake for water birds from various vantage points\, we can expect some light walking here and there. Any walking we do will be moderate and at a leisurely pace over mostly level trails and roadsides. Spotting scopes will be useful for scanning the lake so bring them if you have one. This trip will break up by noon. Restrooms are available in the park. It is February\, so expect the weather to be cold and possibly wet so dress accordingly. Severe weather will cancel this trip. If you are unsure\, or have any other questions concerning this field trip\, feel free to contact Bill. \nDirections: \nWe will meet at the Parks south swimming beach parking lot\, nearest to the Pavilion. To get to the East Fork SP  south entrance from I-275\, take exit # 65\, SR 125 (Beechmont Ave./Ohio Pike) and go east about 9 miles to the junction of Rt. 222. Turn left onto Old State Rte. 125 (opposite Rt. 222) and follow the signs to the Park entrance. Follow the Park Road (and signs) to the East Fork SP Swimming Beach. Meet in the Parking Lot nearest the Pavilion. \nVisit the East Fork State Park website for a Park map and other info at: \nhttps://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/east-fork-state-park \n  \n(Contributed by Jay Stenger) URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/early-spring-migration-east-fork/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240207T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240207T203000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20240201T234837Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240201T234837Z UID:6702-1707332400-1707337800@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:February Program - Brian Patteson on Seabirding DESCRIPTION:Our February program will be a Zoom program\, because of our unpredictable February weather. It will start at 7:00 p.m. on February 7\, and run about an hour and a half. \nTo join the Zoom program\, please follow this link: \nTopic: February Meeting – Brian Patteson\nTime: Feb 7\, 2024 07:00 PM Eastern Time \nJoin Zoom Meeting\nhttps://zoom.us/j/99245429802 \nMeeting ID: 992 4542 9802 \nOur featured speaker for the February program will be Brian Patteson of “Seabirding”\, out ot Hatteras\, North Carolina. Audubon is excited to have one of the premier Pelagic Birding Outfitters on the East Coast. Brian will walk us through the logistics\, the location\, the boat\, the cruise\, identification\, “what to bring”\,  and the many unique birds and species (whales\, sea turtles) one is likely to find on either a summer trip or a winter trip. \nSeveral of us on the Audubon Board have taken these cruises – it is a great birding experience! \nBrian is originally from Central Virginia near the Blue Ridge Mountains\,  but he started organizing pelagic trips in the late 80s. By the mid 90s pelagic birding off the Outer Banks of NC was becoming pretty popular and he decided to move there and split his time between running birding trips and charter fishing\, something he had wanted to do a few years earlier but didn’t have the connections to get started in. He worked as a deckhand on several boats until 2005\, when he decided to start a charter business running his own vessel\, and purchased a boat that could comfortably carry a couple dozen people offshore. Since 2006\, he has run over 700 birding trips on his own vessels with the help of Kate Sutherland\, who has worked with him since spring of 2000\, and several guest leaders including some of the world’s top guides. He has also led a few birding groups on Antarctic cruises for VENT\, and Kate is currently down there now working for Heritage Expeditions. \n  URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/february-program-brian-patteson-on-seabirding/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240128T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240128T120000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20240116T014503Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240116T014503Z UID:6699-1706436000-1706443200@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:Winter Nature Walk at Spring Grove Cemetery DESCRIPTION:  \nTheme: Winter Nature Walk \nLocation: Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum \nDate: Sunday\, January 28\, 2024 \nMeet: At 10:00 A.M. at Spring Grove Cemetery. Park along the main road\, just beyond the tunnel from the main entrance on Spring Grove Avenue (see directions below). \nLeader: Denis Conover\, (513) 390-0863\, conovedg@hotmail.com \nSpring Grove Cemetery is one of Cincinnati’s most beautiful natural settings and its designation as an arboretum is well deserved. A tremendous diversity and number of plants can be found here. Spring Grove is also one of our areas better places to find birds. \nThe focus of this field trip will be a general winter nature walk with an obvious focus on plants and birds. Over the years our trip leader\, Denis Conover\, has become our go to guy when botany is the theme of our field trips and we are fortunate to have him share his knowledge with us. He is a professor in the department of Biological Sciences at the University of Cincinnati and has been involved in various types of botanical research since 1981. Denis also has a great interest in birds and will equally focus on them. Denis is also a board member of our local Audubon Society. \nDenis’s plan is to take us on a long leisurely winter walk through the cemetery observing plants and looking for birds and other wildlife. Denis has told me has found a few plants already in bloom in January. Winter resident birds (maybe winter finches?)\, native and ornamental plantings\, invasive species\, shrubs and winter tree identification will all be pointed out\, identified and discussed.  Other than a short drive here or there to move to a different part of the grounds\, participants should be prepared for a few hours of being on foot and moderate walking. Much of the walking will be relatively flat and on pavement\, but there are a few low hills and there will also be some walking in wet grass or even snow. It can be very cold in January so we suggest wearing warm layered clothing and comfortable waterproof footwear. Binoculars are necessary to see birds. Restrooms are available at the cemetery office. Severe weather will cancel this trip. If you have any questions feel free to contact Denis. \nDirections: The Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum main entrance is located at 4521 Spring Grove Avenue just west of the Winton Road intersection. To find our meeting spot\, drive in the Spring Grove Avenue main gates and go straight. You will go through a short tunnel (old RR archway). Just beyond the tunnel pull over and park alongside the road and look for Denis. \nSpring Grove Cemetery website: \nhttps://www.springgrove.org/locations/spring-grove-cemetery-arboretum/#hrs URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/winter-nature-walk-at-spring-grove-cemetery/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240120T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240120T120000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20240116T014231Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240116T014315Z UID:6697-1705739400-1705752000@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:Winter Bird Walk at Winton Woods DESCRIPTION:Theme: Winter Bird Walk \nLocation: Winton Woods (Great Parks of Hamilton County) \nDate: Saturday\, January 20\, 2024 \nMeet: At 8:30 AM in the Winton Woods Camp Ground Parking Lot. See directions below. \nLeader: Luke Thies\, (937) 733-9325\, thiesluke997@gmail.com \n  \nThe focus of this trip will be to find Red Crossbills\, an irruptive winter finch. There has been at least one flock of these birds present at Winton Woods for the past month. \nRed Crossbills are very rare winter visitors in our region of the country. They are absent most years. They are northern (Canada boreal forests) and western (montane pines) residents that generally stay “home” during most winters\, where they subsist on pine cone seeds which are usually available to them all winter. Their “crossed” bills are adaptations for gleaning seeds from pine cones. These crossbills\, and other similar species\, are dependent on the seeds from these cones. Every few years or so\, these cone “crops” fail\, or don’t otherwise provide enough seeds to last through the winter. When this happens these birds become nomadic and move great distances in search of better food sources. Northern boreal birds usually head south into the northern US and sometimes as far south as southern Ohio. Western montane birds may head to the eastern US\, which is thought to be the case this season. These winter movements are defined by the terms “cyclic” or “irruptive”. \nThis happens to be one of those irruptive years. This winter movement was predicted and there have been many reports of Red Crossbills throughout the eastern US this winter. There are at least three regional locations where they have been publicly reported. Winton Woods is one of those places. At least one flock\, consisting of 18-20 Red Crossbills\, has been consistently found and photographed at Winton over the past month. We feel there is a good chance we will find these birds\, as they are rather noisy and their flight calls are distinctive. But\, as with any birds\, there is never a guarantee \nEveryone should be on the lookout for these rare birds this winter. They could show up anywhere the habitat is good and a food source is available. In addition to pine groves\, they are fond of sweet gums and will visit feeders. \nWhile we have not heard of any Pine Siskin reports yet\, these northern winter visitors have also been predicted to “erupt” this winter. Red-breasted Nuthatches\, another winter cyclic species\, but much more common than the crossbills\, may also be found. This has been a below average year for Red-breasted Nuthatches\, but there were a couple found on the recent Christmas Count at Winton.  Of course we will have our eyes and ears open for all the resident and seasonal birds\, of which we expect to find many species during the morning walk \nOur trip leader\, Luke Thies\, is a skilled birder and naturalist. Luke is also a valued board member of our Audubon Society Luke has been following the Winton crossbills and has seen and heard them several times\, so we are in good hands. Luke’s priority\, obviously\, is to locate the Red Crossbills. He will start the morning walk at the expected locations\, and if time permits\, check out a few ther locations in the Park. \nThis trip will consist mostly of walking\, but over mostly level ground and at a birders pace as we look for birds. It is January\, so be prepared for cold temperatures and possible snow. There are restrooms available at Winton Woods. Severe weather will cancel this trip. If you are unsure or have any questions’ feel free to contact Luke. \nA Motor Vehicle Permit (MVP) is required at all Hamilton County Parks. The cost for a daily MVP is $5 resident & $8 non-resident. An annual MVP is $10 resident & $16 non-resident. \nDirections: Winton Woods address is 10245 Winton Road\, Cincinnati\, Ohio 45231. The Park entrance is located on Winton Road\, 3 miles south of I-275 or 3 miles north of Ronald Reagan Cross-County Highway. The Winton Road Campground and Parking Lot is located east of Winton Road. From Winton Road\, turn east onto park road Lakeview Drive and go about .6 of a mile to the Campgrounds entrance. Turn right into the campgrounds and the visitor Parking Lot is immediately on your right. \nThe Winton Woods website link follows: \nhttps://www.greatparks.org/parks/winton-woods \n  \n  \n(Contributed by Jay Stenger) \n  URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/winter-bird-walk-at-winton-woods/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240117T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240117T210000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20240109T191218Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240109T191320Z UID:6689-1705518000-1705525200@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:January Zoom Meeting - Brian Wulker on eBird DESCRIPTION:Given the unpredictability of January weather\, our monthly meeting will be held online\, via Zoom\, instead of in person. The meeting will start at 7:00 pm. on Wednesday\, January 17. To join the meeting\, follow this link: \nJoin Zoom Meeting\nhttps://zoom.us/j/95402963837?pwd=R1R2THAyWnJQTVpVcG5XTkp1emFhQT09 \nMeeting ID: 954 0296 3837\nPasscode: 679252 \nOur meeting will feature Brian Wulker\, explaining how you can explore data about our local birds using the resources of eBird. Depending on audience interest\, he may also get into how and why to put your own sightings into the eBird database\, and how to use their Merlin app. \nBrian certainly knows his way around eBird\, as he is a “regional editor” for 21 counties in the Greater Cincinnati area. That means that he is charged with reviewing unusual records for accuracy. Apart from eBird\, Brian has been birding for over 20 years. He is currently employed as a contractor at Fernald Preserve\, doing monitoring and land management. URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/january-zoom-meeting-brian-wulker-on-ebird/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231203T103000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231203T120000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20231119T153137Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231119T153137Z UID:6684-1701599400-1701604800@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:Cincinnati Wild Ones - Tree ID Walk at Spring Grove DESCRIPTION:Tree ID Walk at Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum \nSponsored by Greater Cincinnati Wild Ones Chapter \nSunday\, December 3rd\, 2023 \n10:30 am to 12:00 pm \n4521 Spring Grove Ave\, Cincinnati\, OH\, 45232 \n  \nFree\, Public welcome\, Nature walk/hike\, Chapter Social \nPublic restrooms\, drinking fountains \n  \nThe focus of this field trip\, lead by Dr. Denis Conover\, will be the diverse botanical community found at Spring Grove Cemetery. \nCome out and join UC professor\, and expert botanist and naturalist Denis Conover as he leads us on a mid-morning walk with a focus on native tree ID\, through the beautiful grounds of Spring Grove Cemetery. \nParticipants should be prepared for a few hours of steady walking\, most of which will be relatively flat and on pavement\, but there will also be some walking off pavement on trails or in damp or wet grass. \nDress for the weather\, consider layering lightweight clothing. \nTo RSVP or if you have any questions\, contact us at cincinnatiwildones@gmail.com. URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/cincinnati-wild-ones-tree-id-walk-at-spring-grove/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231126T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231126T140000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20231114T160134Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231114T160221Z UID:6682-1700983800-1701007200@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:Waterfowl and Late Fall Migrants at Brookville Lake Area DESCRIPTION:Brookville Lake Area \nWaterfowl & Late Fall Migrants \nDate: Sunday\, November 26\, 2023 \nCo-Leader:  Jack Stenger\, (513) 503-3389\, jackstenger@gmail.com \nCo-Leader: Jay Stenger\, (513) 522-8147\, jaystenger1@gmail.com \nMeet: 7:30 a.m. at the Park & Ride Lot at I-275 Exit # 7. See directions below. \n  \nThe focus of this trip will be the fall waterfowl migration\, which should be near peak at this date. The general plan is to visit several spots around Brookville Lake and\, if time permits\, make the short hop over to Hueston Woods before returning home. Both of these locations are hotspots and are excellent for attracting waterfowl and water birds at this season. The rural countryside surrounding these two large lakes has diverse habitats so we expect to find a great variety and diversity of species throughout the day. In addition to many species of waterfowl (ducks & geese) we also expect to see loons\, grebes\, gulls\, Sandhill Cranes\, late shorebirds (such as Dunlin & Wilson’s Snipe)\, good numbers of Bald Eagles\, many hawks\, numbers of seasonal songbirds and much more. Rare species are always possible at this season. Prairie Falcon and Golden Eagle have been seen on this trip in past years. \nOur trip leaders\, son and father Jack Stenger & Jay Stenger\, are long time ASO advocates and expert birders with excellent field skills. They also know the Brookville region intimately\, so we can expect to find a great diversity of seasonal species. This will be an auto type tour and will consist of driving from spot to spot\, interspersed with a few short easy walks. While this trip does entail considerable driving\, the rewards\, in terms of what we see\, always make this trip well worth the effort. \nThe trip will run into midafternoon\, but of course you can leave at any time you like. Bring your lunch and drinks. It always seems colder around large lakes so dress accordingly. If you have a scope it will prove useful. Restrooms will be available throughout the day. One important note\, Indiana State Parks charges a daily per car entrance fee ($7 resident\, $9 non-resident). At this time of year there are usually no attendants on duty but we cannot be sure of that. \nDirections: \nWe will meet at 7:30 a.m. at the park & ride lot\, located right at the I-275 Exit # 7 at SR 128\, marked Cleves-Hamilton. This is the first exit just west of the Great Miami River at Miamitown. We will caravan from there to the Brookville area\, about a 30-minute drive. \nIf you have any questions about this trip feel free to contact Jay or Jack at their contacts listed above. \n  \nFor a map and other info visit the Brookville Lake website at: \nhttp://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2961.htm \nVisit the Whitewater Memorial State Park (at Brookville Lake) website at: \nhttp://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2962.htm \nVisit the Hueston Woods SP website at: \nhttps://ohiodnr.gov/wps/portal/gov/odnr/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/hueston-woods-state-park \n  \n(Contributed by Jay Stenger) URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/waterfowl-and-late-fall-migrants-at-brookville-lake-area/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231119T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231119T120000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20231114T155823Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231114T155823Z UID:6680-1700380800-1700395200@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:Late Fall Bird and General Nature Walk at Armleder DESCRIPTION:Theme:  Late Fall Bird and General Nature Walk \nLocation: Otto Armleder Memorial Park \nDate: Sunday\, November 19\, 2023 \nMeet: At 8:00 AM at the Main Pavilion Parking Lot at Armleder Park (See directions below) \nLeader: Luke Thies\, (937) 733-9325\, thiesluke997@gmail.com \n  \nArmleder Park in jointly managed by the Hamilton County Great Parks and the Cincinnati City Parks. This 305 acre park has developed an excellent birding reputation\, mostly due to its unique habitats. The park lies in a flood plain along the west bank of the Little Miami River\, about a mile north of its confluence with the Ohio River. The park is prone to flooding\, which can be good for water birds but difficult to access at those times. The park also has a sizeable amount of open space\, including grassland and weedy fields\, an uncommon habitat in the Greater Cincinnati area. This in turn attracts many open country and grassland species (including Short-eared Owls in the winter). The wooded riparian corridor and sandbars along the Little Miami are very attractive to a number of birds. Brushy woodland edges\, athletic fields and abandoned gravel pits\, at least one which is permanently filled with water\, round out the habitats. All of this attracts a great diversity of species throughout the various seasons. Many trails meander through the park. \nOur trip leader\, Luke Thies\, is a skilled birder and naturalist. Luke is also a valued board member of our Audubon Society who works for Great Parks of Hamilton County. Luke plan is to walk the trails through the diverse habitats this Park has to offer. We expect to find a diversity of seasonal birds. Among the late fall migrants and winter resident species we should find several species of sparrows and raptors\, including Bald Eagle. While birds will likely be our focus\, Luke will not ignore other flora and fauna we find along the way. Late autumn is a beautiful time of the year. The subtle hues of the landscape interspersed with fall colors offer up a stark beauty. So come on out with us and join Luke for what should be a pleasant morning walk in an interesting and unique park. \nVirtually all of this trip will be on foot\, but walking will be easy to moderate and at a birders pace.  As always\, be prepared for muddy spots\, especially if conditions have been wet. Expect winter temperatures and dress accordingly. It should go without saying that binoculars are necessary for seeing birds well. Restrooms are available at Armleder. This field trip will end sometime around noon. \nIf you have any questions about this trip feel free to contact Luke at his contacts listed above. \nDirections: \nOtto Armleder Park is located at 5057 Wooster Pike\, Cincinnati\, OH 45226. It is located directly north of Lunken Airport and Beechmont Avenue\, but can only be accessed from Wooster Pike. You can access Wooster Pike and Armleder Park from Columbia Parkway (US 50)\, and Red Bank Road from the north or Beechmont Avenue (Rt. 125) or Wilmer Avenue from the south. From Wooster Pike\, turn into Otto Armleder Park and follow the Park road straight to the stop sign at the T intersection. Then go straight ahead\, into the main Pavilion Parking lot where we will meet. \n  \nOtto Armleder Website (Includes Google Directions & Park Map) \nhttps://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks/visit-a-park/find-a-parkfacility/otto-armleder-memorial-park/ \n https://www.greatparks.org/parks/otto-armleder-memorial-park/otto-armleder-memorial-park-trails \n  \n(Contributed by Jay Stenger) URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/late-fall-bird-and-general-nature-walk-at-armleder/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231115T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231115T210000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20231028T144527Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231028T163014Z UID:6661-1700074800-1700082000@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:November Audubon Program - UC's Avian Mortalities Project DESCRIPTION:Title: UC’s Avian Mortalities Project\nHost: Professor Ron Canterbury\n          Associate Academic Director\n          UC Department of Biological Sciences\n\nWednesday\,  November  15\,  7:00 to 9:00 pm\nSharon Woods Park Visitors Center\n\n\nDr. Canterbury has been leading local efforts to reduce impact based bird fatalities.  Bird fatalities at building sites are becoming a National issue. The people of Chicago were shocked to learn that 961 birds were killed in one night at one building location. Washington D.C. has put in place local ordinances to address bird fatalities.\n\n Dr. Canterbury will discuss the species killed at glass windows\, the numbers of birds killed this year and the over the last six years.  Dr. Canterbury will also review the buildings/locations with the highest impact rates\, and the factors that affect collision mortality on campus.\n\nSpecific site mitigation and building specific interventions will be covered. Dr. Canterbury will cover the status of UC’s response and the overall scope and status of the project. He will discuss the project’s specific needs and how everyone may get involved\, both locally and nationally.  He will project the results onto avian conservation and ecosystem level analyses\, along with a call to change the global narrative and worldview on this topic. Dr. Ron will review the educational and lobbying plans at local\, state\, and national levels.\n\nWe’ll meet at Sharon Woods Visitor Center on Wednesday\, September 20\, at 7:00 p.m. The Visitor Center is located at 11450 Lebanon Road (U.S. Route 42)\, Sharonville\, Ohio\, about 3/4 mile south of Interstate 275.\n\nContact Rick Marra with any questions\, at rickpmarra@aol.com. URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/november-audubon-program-ucs-avian-mortalities-project/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231108T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231108T193000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20231028T155615Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231028T155945Z UID:6666-1699466400-1699471800@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:Wild Ones Winter Chapter Meeting DESCRIPTION:Tom Borgman\, presenting How to Design\, Plant and Maintain Your Native Landscape\nTom will cover some important considerations when planning and designing your landscape with native plants\, including “curb appeal”\, identifying and controlling invasive species\, and tips on planting techniques and some efficient practices to keep your habitat thriving. \nMeet at the Greater Cincinnati Civic Garden Center\, 2715 Reading Road\, Cincinnati\, OH 45206. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday evening\, November 8\, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. \nPlease RSVP to cincinnatiwildones@gmail.com \n  URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/wild-ones-winter-chapter-meeting/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231104T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231104T140000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20231028T145737Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231028T163119Z UID:6664-1699088400-1699106400@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:Cincinnati Audubon - UC Ornithology Club Joint Outing DESCRIPTION:Tour of UC Center for Field Studies\nWe will tour the University of Cincinnati Center for Field Studies\, located at 11053 Oxford Road\, Harrison\, Ohio  45030. This is adjacent to the Shaker Trace Wetlands\, and is not normally open to the public. To reach this spot from I-74\, take the Dry Fork Road exit (exit 3) and turn right onto Dry Fork Road. Continue through the traffic circle and then turn right onto New Haven Road. Turn left onto Oxford Road at the stop sign. The Center will be on the left. \nOur host will be Professor Ron Canterbury\, Associate Academic Director of the UC Department of Biological Sciences. \n\nAgenda:\n9:00 to 11:00           Tour Facility\n                                    Discussion of Research\n11:00 to 12:30        Wetland Birding / Hike\n12:30 to 1:00          Lunch (pizzas\, provided by Audubon!)\n\n1:00 to 2:00            Additional questions\, discussion\, next steps\n\nContact Rick Marra with any questions\, at rickpmarra@aol.com. Also\, please RSVP so we know how much pizza to buy! URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/cincinnati-audubon-uc-ornithology-club-joint-outing/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231028T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231028T120000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20231006T175528Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231006T175528Z UID:6647-1698480000-1698494400@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:Late Fall Migration and Nature Walk at East Fork DESCRIPTION:Late Fall Migration and Nature Walk \nLocation: East Fork State Park \nDate: Saturday\, October 28\, 2023 \nMeet: 8:00 A.M. at the East Fork State Parks south Swimming Beach parking lot\, nearest the Pavilion (see the directions below). \nLeader: Bill Stanley\, (513) 324-2796\, tyrannus58@gmail.com \n  \nJoin our trip leader Bill Stanley for what should be a great day of birding at East Fork State Park during a beautiful time of the year. Bill is an expert birder and skilled naturalist and a long time ASO advocate.  October is a beautiful month and autumn color should be near peak on this date. October is also centered in the middle of fall migration and because of that it offers somewhat of a mixed bag of species. East Fork SP and Harsha Lake is an excellent spot to find this diversity of species. \nWhile neo-tropic migration is generally over by this date\, there still should be plenty of migrant songbirds around. Shorebird migration continues and the shoreline of the swimming beach has proven over the years tto attract many species\, some quite rare. This is also true of gulls\, terns\, grebes\, loons and a number of other species of water birds. Waterfowl migration will also be close to peak on this date. Raptors are on the move throughout the month and Bald Eagles should be expected. Even a few of our winter residents may be showing up by this date. And there is always a chance for a rarity\, as East Fork has an excellent reputation in that regard\, particularly in the fall. \nBill\, who lives nearby\, knows East Fork SP as well as anyone and plans to visit several different locations and habitats within the park. This will entail driving to a few different spots interspersed with a bit of walking in between. While we will walk a bit during the morning\, it will be moderate and at a leisurely pace over mostly level trails and roadsides. Bill will probably stay at it until birding begins to tail off around noon. So come and join Bill on what should be a beautiful autumnal morning. Restrooms are available in the park. If you have any questions feel free to contact Bill. \nDirections: \nWe will meet at the Parks south swimming beach parking lot\, nearest to the Pavilion. To get to the East Fork SP  south entrance from I-275\, take exit # 65\, SR 125 (Beechmont Ave./Ohio Pike) and go east about 9 miles to the junction of Rt. 222. Turn left onto Old State Rte. 125 (opposite Rt. 222) and follow the signs to the Park entrance. Follow the Park Road (and signs) to the East Fork SP Swimming Beach. Meet in the Parking Lot nearest the Pavilion. \n  \nVisit the East Fork State Park website for a Park map and other info at: \nhttps://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/east-fork-state-park \n  \n(Contributed by Jay Stenger) URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/late-fall-migration-and-nature-walk-at-east-fork/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231022T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231022T140000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20231006T175318Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231006T175318Z UID:6645-1697968800-1697983200@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:Fall Color and Botanical Walk at Spring Grove Cemetery DESCRIPTION:Theme: Fall Color & Botanical Walk \nLocation: Spring Grove Cemetery \nDate: Sunday\, October 22\, 2023 \nMeet: 10:00 A.M. at Spring Grove Cemetery\, along the road just beyond the tunnel from the main entrance on Spring Grove Avenue \nLeader: Denis Conover\, (513) 390-0863\, conovedg@hotmail.com \nThe focus of this field trip will be the diverse botanical community found at Spring Grove Cemetery. Come out and join ASO Board Member\, UC professor\, and expert botanist and naturalist Denis Conover as he leads us on a mid-morning autumnal walk through the beautiful grounds of Spring Grove Cemetery. This is a beautiful time of the year and fall color should be near peak on this date. \nDenis will identify the tremendous diversity of trees\, shrubs\, fallen leaves and other plants that can be found here and expound on their ecology. Denis will also point out our native flora\, invasive species\, ornamental plantings and fall color as well as show us some of the national and state champion trees found here. Denis has interests in all aspects of natural history and he will be sure to point out any birds and other fauna we are sure to run across. So why not come along and join Denis on what should be a glorious fall morning and gain some tips and insight on plant identification and their natural history. \nParticipants should be prepared for a few hours of steady walking\, most of which will be relatively flat and on pavement\, but there will also be some walking off pavement on trails or in damp or wet grass. This will be a three to four walk. We suggest wearing good waterproof footwear. Binoculars are not necessary to see plants but are recommended if you have them\, or want to see birds clearly. Restrooms are available at the cemetery office. \nDirections: The Spring Grove Cemetery main entrance is located on Spring Grove Avenue just west of the Winton Road intersection. To find our meeting spot\, drive in through the main entrance gates and go straight. You will go through a short tunnel. Just beyond the tunnel\, pull over and park alongside the right side of the road. If you have any questions feel free to contact Denis. \nSpring Grove Cemetery website: \nhttps://www.springgrove.org/locations/spring-grove-cemetery-arboretum/ \nSpring Grove Cemetery Map: \nhttps://www.springgrove.org/resource/maps/ \n(Contributed by Jay Stenger) URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/fall-color-and-botanical-walk-at-spring-grove-cemetery/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231018T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231018T210000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20231007T150510Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231007T150510Z UID:6652-1697655600-1697662800@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:October Program - Design\, Plant and Maintain your Native Landscape DESCRIPTION:Audubon will present its monthly program on Wednesday\, October 18 at the Sharon Woods Visitor Center. We will feature Tom Borgman\, speaking on how to design\, plant and maintain a native landscape at your home. Tom is retired from his job as Natural Resources Manager at the Great Parks of Hamilton County\, and is still actively involved in working in natural areas. \nWe’ll start with some important considerations when planning and designing your landscape with native plants. \nNext we will discuss planting techniques that make the project easier and more likely to be a success. \nMaintaining your landscape doesn’t have to be difficult. Tips on efficient ways to keep your habitat thriving will be shared. \nInvasive species are often a factor when creating or restoring a native plant community.  Identifying and controlling invasives will be also covered in this presentation. \nWe’ll meet at Sharon Woods Visitor Center on Wednesday\, October 18\, at 7:00 p.m. The Visitor Center is located at 11450 Lebanon Road (U.S. Route 42)\, Sharonville\, Ohio\, about 3/4 mile south of Interstate 275. URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/october-program-design-plant-and-maintain-your-native-landscape/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231015T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231015T140000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20231006T175030Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231006T175030Z UID:6643-1697367600-1697378400@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:Herping at Spring Valley DESCRIPTION:Theme: Herping (Reptiles & Amphibians) Field Trip \nLocation: Spring Valley Wildlife Area \nDate: Sunday\, October 15\, 2023 \nMeet: At 11:00 A.M. in the main Parking lot at Spring Valley Wildlife Area. See directions below. \nLeader:  Ryan Jorgensen\, (630) 333-2631\, jorgensen28ryan@gmail.com \n  \nThe theme of this field trip is to find reptiles and amphibians or “herps” as many naturalists refer to them (from herpetology). This group of animals includes snakes\, turtles\, lizards (reptiles) and frogs\, toads and salamanders (amphibians). Our chances of success are very good because our field trip leader\, Ryan Jorgensen\, is an expert herpetologist and naturalist. Ryan has a Master’s degree in Biological Science at UC where he specialized in herpetology. His research is on snakes and particularly their muscular activity during locomotion. Ryan is also an avid birder and will not ignore them on this trip. \nTo the surprise of some\, October is actually a good month to find reptiles and amphibians. Cool to mild temperatures should prevail on this autumnal late morning walk and fall colors should be near peak. Ryan assures me that this date and these conditions are great for reptiles and amphibians. After cool night temperatures\, these cold-blooded creatures become active as the day warms up\, seeking places to sun and bask\, making them much easier to find and see. This is why Ryan chose this later than “normal” start for this field. But rainy weather can and does play a major role in the success of finding reptiles. Spotty showers shouldn’t be a problem\, but a 100 % rainy day would definitely put a “damper” on the day’s results (pun intended). Because of this\, a forecast of all day rain will cancel this trip. If you are unsure\, contact Ryan prior to the field trip. \nMany of us know SVWA as a great birding area but the varied habitats found in this 842 acre wildlife area are also perfect for reptiles and amphibians. The shallow lake with dense emergent vegetation\, the extensive marsh\, the shallow Little Miami River\, the wooded riparian bottoms and hardwood hillsides and dense brushy edges all contribute to a perfect habitat for a diversity of herp species. \nRyan plans to walk the loop trail investigating and probing all the hidden spots where our subjects may be hiding or basking. While there are never any guarantees\, Ryan knows how to find herps\, so expectations are high. Ryan will most likely spot several species of herps including snakes\, skinks\, turtles\, frogs\, toads and salamanders and he believes that finding 10 or more species is a reasonable goal. And he may catch a few species to boot. Ryan tells me October can be a particularly good month for snakes. SVWA is also famous as one of the few places in Ohio that the eastern massasauga rattlesnake is found\, although it is in decline here. \nThe date of this trip is set right in the middle of fall migration and a diverse group of birds should also be found. We expect to see shorebirds on the mudflats\, early season waterfowl\, other water and marsh birds\, Bald Eagle\, Osprey and other raptors and numerous songbirds among others. \nThis trip will consist totally of walking the loop trail around the marsh which is a little over two miles long. But walking will be leisurely and over flat terrain with lots of stops to view wildlife. Parts of the trails may be damp or wet\, so waterproof footwear is advised. Binoculars will aid you in viewing wildlife and birds and are also advised. Fall mornings can be quite cool before the day warms up\, so dress accordingly. To make your trip more comfortable we suggest bringing water. There are no restrooms available at SVWA\, but there is plenty of privacy in the woods. Restrooms are available at “not so” nearby Caesar Creek State Park and Waynesville businesses. This trip is expected to last at least three to four hours. Come on out and join Ryan for what should prove to be a unique field trip on what will likely be a beautiful autumnal day. If you have any questions feel free to contact Ryan. \nDirections: To get to Spring Valley Wildlife Area from Cincinnati\, take I-71 north from its intersection with I-275 for about 11 miles to SR 48 (exit # 28\, Lebanon). Go north on SR 48 for about 5.5 miles to US 42. Turn right onto US 42 and go north for 12.6 miles (going past Waynesville/SR 73) to Roxanna New Burlington Road. There is a small SVWA sign before your turn. Turn right onto Roxanna New Burlington Road.  Cross the Little Miami River Bridge and go 1.5 miles to Pence Jones Road and turn right. Follow Pence Jones Road for .7 mile to a T intersection. Turn right and follow this road .5 mile until it ends in the Spring Valley WA parking lot. Look for Ryan in the parking lot.  From the intersection of I-275 and I-71 it is about 35 minutes and allow at least 40 minutes to get to SVWA \n  \nThe ODNR Spring Valley WA website (includes a map) \nhttps://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/spring-valley-wildlife-area \nSVWA Map: \nhttps://ohiodnr.gov/static/documents/wildlife/wildlife-area-maps/springvalley.pdf \n  \n  \n(Contributed by Jay Stenger) \n  URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/herping-at-spring-valley/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231015T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231015T130000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20230914T161720Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230914T161720Z UID:6625-1697356800-1697374800@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:Audubon Bird Class DESCRIPTION:2023 ASO Bird Course \nSunday Mornings\, October 15th\, 22nd & October 29th\, 2023 \n  \n  \nHone your birding and identification skills by registering for the 34th annual Audubon Birding Course. Our local Cincinnati Audubon Society Chapter (ASO) has been sponsoring this class since 1987. This year the Cardinal Land Conservancy\, a non-profit land trust in the Cincinnati region\, will be co-sponsoring this event. The three-week course will be held on three consecutive Sunday mornings. This year’s dates are; October 15th\, October 22nd and October 29th. Father-son team Jay Stenger and Jack Stenger will again be this year’s instructors. Both Jay and Jack are well known and exceptionally knowledgeable birders. Jay has been an instructor for this course since its inception in 1987 and Jack for over 16 years. The course will be held at the Fernald Preserve Visitor Center. Fernald preserve is located in northwestern Hamilton County. The entrance is located at 7400 Wiley Road\, about ¼ of a mile west of State Route 128. Follow the entrance road to the Visitor Center. You can visit the Fernald Preserve website for further information at https://www.energy.gov/lm/fernald-preserve-ohio-site \n  \nEach class will begin at 8 AM with a casual class-room session that includes a continental breakfast. The classroom sessions will be followed by a field trip to a local hot spot\, usually wrapping up about 1 PM. The field trip locations will be determined by current birding conditions and the interests of the participants. \n  \nThrough discussions\, visual and audio presentations and field observations\, the course will particularly focus on sharpening identification skills. But the course will offer much more than that. When\, where and how to find birds in our area is also prioritized. Other course topics will include migration\, bird abundance and distribution\, habitat\, conservation\, local hotspots\, and birding equipment and resources. The setting is informal and questions are encouraged. Jay and Jack also infuse a lot of fun\, levity and enthusiasm throughout. \n  \nThis course is geared towards all birding levels. While mid-level birders may gain the most from this course\, most birders\, beginners and experienced alike\, will find that this course will help hone their ID skills and add to their knowledge of local birds. Over 600 area birders have taken this course over the years and have found it entertaining and informative. The course is open to everyone\, including older kids if accompanied by an adult. Binoculars are required and a field guide will be useful to refer to in class and in the field. If you do not have a pair of binoculars\, the ASO can lend you a pair during the course. \n  \nAdvance registration is required. Course fees are $20 for ASO members and $35 for non-members which include a year’s membership in ASO. The course will be limited to a maximum of 30 participants. To register\, go to https://cincinnatiaudubon.regfox.com/audubon-bird-class \n  \nIf you have any questions\, or to be placed on a waiting list if the event is full\, email Jay Stenger at jaystenger1@gmail.com \n  \n(Contributed by Jay Stenger) URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/audubon-bird-class/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231014T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231014T120000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20231006T175804Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231006T175829Z UID:6649-1697270400-1697284800@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:Fall Migration in the Oxbow DESCRIPTION:Fall Migration in the Oxbow & Bird Survey \nSaturday\, October 14\, 2023\, 8:00 A.M. \nMeet in the upper Oxbow parking lot at the main entrance to the Oxbow \nLeader: Dave Helm\, (513) 403-4519\, helmmd@icloud.com \n  \nJoin our field trip leader Dave Helm for what should be a beautiful autumnal morning visit to the Oxbow. From my perspective October may be the best time of year to be outdoors in terms of pleasant weather and natural beauty. Cool to mild temperatures are the norm\, fall color abounds and there seems to be crispness in the air. \nBirds are abundant at this season too\, as many different species are still migrating throughout the month.  By the date of this trip waterfowl migration will be well underway.  But many other species are still on the move during October. Shorebirds\, various water birds\, raptors and a diversity of songbirds are all expected on this date.  The various habitats of the Oxbow and the lower Great Miami River valley are a great place to see the diversity of these migration patterns. \nDave Helm is a long time Oxbow member and advocate and is an exceptional all around naturalist and expert level birder. Dave knows the Oxbow area extremely well. Dave’s plan is to lead us to several spots in and around the Oxbow\, looking for the “mixed bag” that fall migration can bring. There will be some walking on this trip\, but it will be level and at a birders pace. Depending on time\, Dave may carpool us over to the newest Oxbow Inc. property known as “Oxbow East” or to Lost Bridge. \nThe Indiana Land Preservation Alliance (ILPA) has invited Oxbow Inc.\, for the second consecutive year\, to participate in their Indiana statewide October Big Day that will take place on this date. Many land trusts throughout Indiana will be participating in this statewide bird survey\, so of course we accepted their invitation. So we can help Dave keep track of all the species and numbers of individuals we find on our morning walk and then submit the results to ILPA. \n This is a morning field trip that will probably end around noon. Binoculars are necessary to see birds well. Restrooms are available nearby but not in the Oxbow itself. October usually has beautiful weather but plan accordingly and always expect mud in the Oxbow. Feel free to contact Dave if you have any questions. \n(Contributed by Jay Stenger) URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/6649/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230923T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230923T120000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20230914T144708Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230914T144708Z UID:6621-1695456000-1695470400@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:Field Trip - Fall Songbird Migration DESCRIPTION:Fall Songbird Migration \nLocation: Mt. Airy Forest \nSaturday\, September 23\, 2023 \nMeet:  At 8:00 a.m. in the parking lot at Everybody’s Tree House on Trail Ridge Road in Mt. Airy Forest (see directions below). \nLeader: Jack Stenger\, (513) 503-3389\, jackstenger@gmail.com \n  \n  \nFall songbird migration will be near peak on this morning walk\, and both residents and migrant songbirds should abound. Our trip leader will be Jack Stenger. Jack is an expert birder\, a skilled naturalist and a long time ASO advocate. His field skills\, particularly his recognition of bird calls and songs\, are off the charts. With Jack’s help we expect to find many species of warblers as well as many other songbirds including flycatchers\, vireos\, swallows\, thrushes\, tanagers\, sparrows\, grosbeaks\, and buntings among others. Hawks\, cuckoos\, hummingbirds and woodpeckers will be present and even Wild Turkeys are likely. \n  \nMt. Airy Forest is a large City of Cincinnati Park that consists of 1\,459 acres of mostly woodlands that range from mature forest\, mixed conifer-deciduous woodlands\, pine groves\, woodland edges\, tree lined streams\, open park land and an arboretum. There are miles of hiking trails and roadsides\, making birding access easy. Mt. Airy also acts as a “migrant trap” during spring and fall\, as from the sky this large “island” of green stands out from the surrounding urban sea and thus attracts many birds. \n  \nJacks plan is to walk and bird around at least a few different sections of the park\, beginning at the well-marked and very obvious Everybody’s Tree House. Other than to move from one section of the park to another\, this trip will consist mostly of walking. Most of the area is relatively flat and walking will be at a leisurely birders pace. Restrooms are available in the park. If you expect to see birds binoculars are necessary. Water and comfortable shoes will make your walk more enjoyable. The trip will break up around noon. If you have any questions feel free to contact Jack. \n  \nDirections: Mt. Airy Forest is located at 5083 Colerain Avenue. To get to our meeting spot from the Mt. Airy Forest Colerain entrance\, turn into the park onto Blue Spruce Road and immediately turn left onto Trail Ridge Road. Drive .4 tenths of a mile on Trail Ridge Road to the parking lot for the Everybody’s Tree House. \n  \nVisit the Mt. Airy Forest website for further information. \nhttps://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks/visit-a-park/find-a-parkfacility/mt-airy-forest/ \n  \n(Contributed by Jay Stenger) URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/field-trip-fall-songbird-migration/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230920T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230920T210000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20230914T151117Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230914T151117Z UID:6623-1695236400-1695243600@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:Program - Birding Hamilton County's Great Parks DESCRIPTION:This month’s Audubon program will feature Luke Thies on birding in the Great Parks of Hamilton County. There are 22 Great Parks in Hamilton County\, and all of them feature great birding. Luke has been an interpreter/naturalist there for the past two years\, and has an insider’s knowledge about where and when to visit to find birds. \nWe’ll meet at Sharon Woods Visitor Center on Wednesday\, September 20\, at 7:00 p.m. The Visitor Center is located at 11450 Lebanon Road (U.S. Route 42)\, Sharonville\, Ohio\, about 3/4 mile south of Interstate 275. URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/program-birding-hamilton-countys-great-parks/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230916T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230916T120000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20230907T163024Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230907T163132Z UID:6618-1694851200-1694865600@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:The Secret Life of Birds DESCRIPTION:Join Adam McCosham\, licensed bird bander\, for this engaging outdoor program at Western Wildlife Corridor’s Kirby Nature Center\, on September 16 at 8:00 a.m. No matter if you are learning to ID birds\, or want to learn how they nest or how they migrate\, one way to learn more is to observe a bird banding session. Bird banding is the practice of safely applying a band or tag to part of the bird\, usually the leg\, for data collection and individual identification. Banding birds allows researchers to learn the migration patterns\, life span\, breeding territory\, and feeding areas of different bird species. Identifying these patterns and behaviors within bird populations plays a critical role in designing and implementing conservation programs for different species of birds. But not just anyone can place bands on birds\, you must have the required permits and approvals. \nJoin us for this interactive outdoor program for a chance to watch bander Adam McCosham in action\, while getting a chance to see various bird species up close and personal. You will learn how to identify birds in the hand as well as see how bird banders age\, weigh and sex the birds as well as how they affix the band. Banding offers an intimate glimpse into the behavior of birds. \nAdam is currently a Conservation and Parks Senior Program Manager with the Great Parks of Hamilton County. He has a degree in Natural Resource Management. Adams has spent the last four years training to band birds and loves passing on his knowledge of natural history to others. \nKirby Nature Center is located at 2 East Main Street\, Addyston OH 45001. The event is free\, but preregistration is required because space is limited. You can register at https://secure.givelively.org/event/western-wildlife-corridor-inc/the-secret-life-of-birds-478e3058-2a81-413b-8344-d4d5b39b1926. URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/the-secret-life-of-birds/ LOCATION:Kirby Nature Center\, 2 East Main Street\, Addyston\, OH\, 45001\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230908T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230910T103000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20230602T155011Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230602T155011Z UID:6573-1694188800-1694341800@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:Shawnee Fall Nature Safari DESCRIPTION:Midwest Native Plant Society will present a fall weekend event\, centered at Shawnee State Park and including locations in Adams and Scioto Counties\, the weekend of September 8 through 10. Registration and fee is required. For full details\, and to register\, visit the Society’s web site\, at https://www.midwestnativeplants.org/NatureSafari. \nWe hope you will join us for this wonderful safari-style weekend immersed in nature. Our home base will be Shawnee Lodge & Conference Center located in Scioto County and surrounded by the beautiful Shawnee State Forest\, and only 20 minutes from many diverse and pretty amazing locations in Adams County/the Edge of Appalachia Preserve and the Sunshine Corridor. \nWe will focus on late summer blooming native flora and the bees and butterflies that are dependent on them. We are fortunate to have keynote speakers who are trained in entomology and the natural sciences. \nWe are looking forward to hearing Dr. Olivia Carril\, Jim McCormac\, Dr. Randall Mitchell\, and Judy Semroc. In addition\, these experts will be joining you in the field for Saturday daytime trips and Friday and Saturday evening events. \nOur daytime and evening field trips are with skilled and experienced leaders to help you learn and to explore the flora and fauna of the hills of Southern Ohio. There will be a focus on native plants and how they support our native wildlife\, but we will have themed trips for wildflowers\, trees\, native bees\, butterflies\, birds\, herps\, caterpillars\, moths and more! \n\nWe will have a variety of Nocturnal Activities\, such as astronomy\, viewing night insects with a focus on moths\, field trips to find caterpillars\, night scouting for insect songs and more.  Usually\, night trips will drive no further than 1/2 mile from the lodge.  Some evening activities are weather dependent.\nOn Sunday we close our conference with a keynote presentation. There will be a chance to register for a photography workshop (Limit 8). To visit on your own\, we compiled this list of unique habitats that we like to visit. URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/shawnee-fall-nature-safari/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230829T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230829T210000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20230807T002901Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230807T003107Z UID:6607-1693335600-1693342800@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:The Long-Term Value of a Small Restored Woodland DESCRIPTION:In the 1950s the Trosset family began restoring an acre of woodland in Evendale Ohio. Over time the property came to host a great diversity of wildflowers and birds. Using 40 years of data collected by Ruth Trosset\, Carol Trosset will describe the ecological value of this forest fragment and discuss their research on how the coming of spring has changed in Cincinnati over the decades. This program will be hosted by Western Wildlife Corridor\, and will be presented on August 29 at 7:00 p.m.\, at the Kirby Nature Center. \nCarol Trosset is a lifelong amateur naturalist and the author of The Woods: The Natural History of an Acre in Southwestern Ohio\, recently published by the Ohio Biological Survey. She grew up in Cincinnati and received training from a number of well-known local naturalists. Now retired from a career as an anthropologist studying institutional effectiveness in higher education\, she has returned to Cincinnati where she co-manages the Trosset Wildflower Sanctuary at Gorman Heritage Farm in Evendale. Books will be available for sale at the event. \nThis event is free\, but pre-registration is required. You can register at https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/zG14XoKq1HbvlojBtM9UOw. \nKirby Nature Center is located at 2 East Main Street\, Addyston\, Ohio. \n  \n  URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/the-long-term-value-of-a-small-restored-woodland/ LOCATION:Kirby Nature Center\, 2 East Main Street\, Addyston\, OH\, 45001\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230826T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230826T120000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20230820T213917Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230820T213917Z UID:6613-1693036800-1693051200@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:Shorebirds & Early Fall Migration DESCRIPTION:Theme: Shorebirds & Early Fall Migration \nLocation: Fernald Preserve\, the Oxbow & Lost Bridge \nDate: Saturday\, August 26\, 2023 \nMeet: At 8:00 AM at the Lodge Pond parking lot at Fernald Preserve (1st parking lot on the right just past entrance). See directions below. \nTrip Leader: Luke Thies\, (937) 733-9325\, thiesluke997@gmail.com \n  \n  \nThe focus of this trip will be birds\, specifically early fall migrants. That’s right\, I did say fall. While the calendar and temperature tells us it is still late summer\, the southbound fall migration of shorebirds (sandpipers & plovers)\, long-legged waders (herons & egrets) and several other species begins quite early and will be well under way by this date. So come out and join our trip leader\, Luke Thies\, as we search for a number of species\, especially shorebirds\, at a few different locations in western Hamilton County. Luke\, who is a board member of our Audubon Society and an employee of Great Parks\, is an excellent birder and all around naturalist. \n  \nShorebirds (sandpipers and plovers) and waders (herons and egrets) need exposed mudflats\, shorelines and sandbars where they forage for food at water’s edge. When they find these suitable conditions during their southbound migration they will stop to rest and refuel so to speak. Good migratory shorebird habitat in our region is generally scarce and can vary from year to year depending on water levels and other factors. To improve our chances of finding these interesting species on this trip\, we will spend some time at a couple of different locations. Locally\, late summer is usually a fairly dry season\, which results in lower water levels\, which in turn provides the habitat that shorebirds and long-legged waders prefer. These seasonally exposed shorelines and shallow edges of wetlands and ponds\, and the exposed sandbars found along the Great Miami River\, can provide favorable habitat for all of these species. \n  \nLuke plans to begin the morning at Fernald Preserve. After birding there for a while\, Luke will caravan us to the Oxbow\, where we will check out Oxbow Lake and\, if time permits\, the Lost Bridge sandbars and adjacent mudflats. In addition to several species of shorebirds\, we expect that we will find numerous Great Egrets and Great Blue Herons and a few Green Herons. This is also a great time of year to find an unusual or rare species such as Little Blue Heron and Snowy Egret. Other species such as early dabbling ducks (teal and shovelers)\, Caspian Terns\, Osprey and Bald Eagles are likely to be seen as well. The grasslands at Fernald and the wooded riparian corridor of the Oxbow should attract numbers of early migrant and resident songbirds including numerous swallows and even a few early fall warblers. It should be a fun trip and we will likely find a good diversity of birds. While birds will be our main focus\, we should see lots of other wildlife and interesting plants. \n  \nWhen we move from Fernald to the Oxbow\, Luke will give us good directions to our next stop. We will take our separate cars and caravan (follow Luke) to the Oxbow. You will have directions (see below)\, but if you do get separated\, you’ll have Luke’s phone number. The distance between Fernald and the Oxbow is about 20 miles (about a 30 minute drive). There will be some moderate walking during this trip\, but it will be slow and easy. This trip should end by noon or a little after. It is usually hot at this season\, so we suggest bringing sunscreen\, insect repellant\, plenty of water and a hat to make your trip more comfortable. Restrooms are available at Fernald Preserve but there are none in the Oxbow. However there are gas stations near the Oxbow. Feel free to contact Luke if you have any questions. \n  \nVisit the Fernald Preserve website at: \nhttps://www.energy.gov/lm/visit-fernald-preserve-visitors-center \n  \nDirections to Fernald Preserve: \nWe will meet at the Lodge Pond parking lot at Fernald Preserve at 8 AM. Fernald Preserve is located in Northwestern Hamilton County. The entrance is located at 7400 Wiley Road\, about ¼ of a mile west of State Route 128. Follow the entrance road to the first gravel parking lot on the right\, about 4 tenths of a mile beyond the entrance. \n  \nDirections to the Oxbow main parking lot: \nTo get to the Oxbow from I-275 take the Lawrenceburg Indiana/US 50 Exit # 16. At the end of the long exit ramp turn left/south on US 50. Almost immediately\, within about 200 yards\, turn left onto unmarked Walnut Street which is just past the Circle K gas station and before a Waffle House. Drive over the levee to where the road T’s. There will be a fence directly in front of you. Turn right and go about 100 yards to the Oxbow entrance sign. Turn left into the Oxbow. The parking area is immediately on your right. You can also use Google Maps and search for “Oxbow Nature Conservancy”. \n  \ncontributed by Jay Stenger URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/shorebirds-early-fall-migration/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230806T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230806T120000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20230724T213026Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230724T213026Z UID:6602-1691312400-1691323200@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:Prairie Plants in Bloom: Chaparral Prairie State Nature Preserve\, Adams County DESCRIPTION:Theme: Prairie Plants in Bloom \nLocation: Chaparral Prairie State Nature Preserve\, Adams County \nDate: Sunday\, August 6\, 2023 \nMeet: At 9:00 A.M. at the Preserve (directions below)\, or at 7:30 A.M. at the McDonald’s at Eastgate to carpool. \nTrip Leaders: Ann Oliver (annieobirder@yahoo.com\, telephone 513-307-0929) and Ned Keller (nedkeller49@gmail.com) \n  \nUnlike our local planted prairies\, the 130-acre Chaparral Prairie State Nature Preserve is an outstanding example of a globally rare\, post oak opening habitat. Post and blackjack oaks are scattered throughout the preserve. This rare habitat supports dozens of rare species including the most extensive population of rattlesnake-master in the state. Prairie plants\, including prairie dock and spiked blazing-star (a few of which are the white color variety)\, are also unusually abundant at this site. Other rare plants include spider milkweed\, prairie false indigo\, pink milkwort and bluehearts. Little bluestem is the dominant prairie grass. With the abundance of summer wildflowers\, Chaparral Prairie is loaded with butterflies\, moths and other interesting insects. Several rare species\, such as Edward’s hairstreak\, Olive hairstreak and Unexpected Cycnia moth\, have been observed in the preserve. \nThe grassy trails total about two miles\, all of which are level or on gentle slopes. But this is August\, on a prairie\, so be prepared for hot weather. Bring plenty of water\, along with sun screen and tick repellant for the numerous ticks that call Adams County home. Also\, be aware that there are no restrooms at Chaparral. \nWe expect to conclude the trip before noon. We may move on to another Adams County prairie after we have finished at Chaparral. \nDirections: From the I-275 loop\, take Ohio 32 eastbound to Winchester. WATCH YOUR SPEED on Ohio 32\, particularly at Mt. Orab. At Winchester\, turn right onto Ohio 136 South. After 7.5 miles\, turn left onto Chapparal Road (yes\, it’s spelled differently from the preserve). After 2.6 miles\, turn left onto Hawk Hill Road. The preserve will be on your left. Allow about an hour from I-275. If you are coming from somewhere other than Cincinnati\, and your GPS takes you on a different route\, the stretch of Hawk Hill Road between the preserve and Cross Road is gravel\, and is often poorly maintained. It’s rough\, but passable in an ordinary car if you’re slow and careful. \nCarpool: Meet Ann to carpool at the McDonald’s at Eastgate\, at 812 Eastgate North Drive\, at 7:30 A.M. She will make a stop in Winchester for your last official restroom. \n  \n  URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/prairie-plants-in-bloom-chaparral-prairie-state-nature-preserve-adams-county/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230729T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230729T140000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20230724T212803Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230726T162019Z UID:6600-1690624800-1690639200@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:Prairie Plants in Bloom: Miami Whitewater Forest\, Shaker Trace DESCRIPTION:Theme: Prairie Plants in Bloom \nLocation: Miami Whitewater Forest\, Shaker Trace \nDate: Saturday July 29\, 2023 \nMeet: At 10:00 A.M. at the University of Cincinnati Center for Field Studies parking lot located at 11053 Oxford Road. See directions below. \nTrip Leader: Conover\, (513) 390-0863\, conovedg@hotmail.com \n  \nThe focus of this trip will be on the prairie & wetland plant communities at the Shaker Trace. Many of the prairie wildflowers will be in bloom blanketing the grassland in spectacular color. In 1992\, Great Parks of Hamilton County began a native prairie and wetland restoration project of several hundred acres at Miami Whitewater Forest.  The project has been a great success and today over 500 acres of a native grassland and wetland community is preserved. Often referred to as the Miami Whitewater wetlands\, the entire complex is officially named Shaker Trace and represents the largest wetland/grassland complex in Hamilton County. Late summer is a great time to see these prairie plants in bloom in a stunning array of colors. \nIdentifying all of these plants can be a challenge. But our trip leader\, Denis Conover\, will help us in that regard. Denis has become our go to guy when botany is the theme of our field trips and we are fortunate to have him share his knowledge with us. Denis is a professor in the department of Biological Sciences at the University of Cincinnati and has been involved in various types of botanical research since 1981. Denis also has a great interest in birds and will equally focus on them. Denis is also a board member of our local Audubon Chapter. \nDenis plans to take a leisurely walk exploring the Shaker Trace complex with lots of stops to look at and identify plants\, especially the prairie blooms. This is also a great time of year for butterflies. Some breeding birds will still be around as well as a few early migrants. Denis will point out all of these and any other wildlife we encounter. \nThis trip will end sometime between 1:00 and 2:00 PM. We will be on foot for the duration of the trip but the walking will be slow and level. Some places are likely to be damp as we will at times walk along a marsh. We can expect late July to be hot\, so to make your trip more comfortable we suggest bringing water\, sun screen\, insect repellant and wearing a hat. We will be walking through long grass so you might want to consider long pants. Bring your binoculars if you have any. \nSo why not come out and join Denis as we walk among the grasses and flowering plants of these extensive prairie and wetland habitats. Restrooms are not available at Shaker Trace but they are available in other areas of the park. A Hamilton County Park Motor Vehicle Permit is required ($5 daily\, $10 annual resident and $8 daily and $16 annual non-resident). Feel free to contact Denis if you have any questions. \nDirections: The University of Cincinnati Center for Field Studies is located at 11053 Oxford Road. The buildings that house the UC Center are a preserved historic Shaker farm site. To get there\, take I-74 west to the Dry Fork Road exit # 3. Turn right onto Dry Fork Road (north) and go 2.2 miles to New Haven Road. Bear right (east) onto New Haven Road and go .8 mile to Oxford Road. Turn left onto Oxford Road and go .7 of a mile. The UC Center for Field Studies will be on your left. Park in the gravel parking spaces or along the gravel driveway and look for Denis. \nFor a Park map and other information visit the Miami Whitewater Forest website at: \nhttps://www.greatparks.org/parks/miami-whitewater-forest \n(Contributed by Jay Stenger) URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/prairie-plants-in-bloom-miami-whitewater-forest-shaker-trace/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230719T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230719T210000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20230707T145734Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230707T145734Z UID:6596-1689793200-1689800400@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:July Audubon Meeting – Shorebirds DESCRIPTION:July Audubon Meeting – Shorebirds \nJuly 19\, 2023 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm \n  \nThis program will discuss the roughly thirty-five species of shorebirds (family Charadriidae; plovers & sandpipers) that migrate through the Greater Cincinnati region on an annual basis. The program will emphasize shorebird identification\, but other topics will also include their relative abundance\, spring and fall migration\, dates of occurrence\, habitats\, ecology and regional locations to find these interesting birds. \nOur speaker\, Jay Stenger\, has been avidly birding for over 40 years and is considered an expert. Jay has been associated with The Audubon Society of Ohio (Cincinnati Chapter) as Treasurer\, field trip coordinator and educator since 1984. He is a long-time Compiler of the NAS Cincinnati Christmas Bird Count\, has served four terms on the Ohio Birds Record Committee\, has conducted Federal and State Breeding Bird Surveys and has led over 400 field trips for a number of birding and conservation organizations. \n  \nThis program is timely\, as the upcoming fall shorebird migration begins in mid-July and continues into November. Look to the Audubon Society’s webpage\, under events\, to find upcoming field trips\, several of which will feature finding shorebirds. \nWe will meet at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday\, April 19\, at the Sharon Centre (Sharon Woods Visitors Center)\, which is located at 11450 Lebanon Road\, Sharonville\, Ohio. From the park entrance on Lebanon Road\, follow the Sharon Woods Drive to the first large parking lot on the left. The Visitors Center is the large building at the back of the parking lot. URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/july-audubon-meeting-shorebirds/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230621T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230621T210000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20230607T163430Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230607T163430Z UID:6579-1687374000-1687381200@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:June Audubon Program - Jennie Russell on Green Roofs DESCRIPTION:Pop Quiz!\nWhat building innovation can benefit wildlife such as birds and bees\, reduce stormwater runoff\, and cut the summer heat flux into your roof thereby cooling your house (i.e. lower utility bills)?\nThe answer is “over your head”.\nIt’s a Green Roof! \nAudubon Society of Ohio is proud to welcome guest speaker Jennie Russell on Wednesday\, June 21 at 7 pm at the Sharon Woods Visitors Center (Sharon Centre). She’s been a birder all her life! Check out her amazing professional bio below! \nBoth Jennie and her husband are landscape architects who for twenty years have been restoring two acres near Winton Woods with native and edible plants. They have persimmons\, pawpaws\, hazelnuts\, pecans\, serviceberries\, blueberries\, and spring ephemerals.\nIn addition to being a lifelong birder\, she’s also been a beekeeper for nearly 15 years. \nHer current home project is her very own Green Roof! She has a wealth of knowledge which she’ll share with ASO at our monthly meeting. Learn how suburban\, urban\, and industrial areas with Green Roofs\, green walls\, and other forms of living architecture can have economic\, social\, and environmental benefits. \nProfessor Virginia L. Russell\, MLA\, FASLA\, RLA\, SITES AP\, LEED AP\, GRP is a Professor of Landscape Architecture. She is the founding director of the University of Cincinnati’s Landscape Architecture and Urban Horticulture Programs. She served on the Green Roofs for Healthy Cities (GRHC\, Toronto\, greenroofs.org) Board of Directors and as Chair of the GRHC Research Committee (2013-2018). She is a founding member of the GRHC Accredited Green Roof Professional (GRP) Program. She is an editorial board member for the Journal of Living Architecture. She is featured in the green roof and green wall book of pioneers\, The Rise of Living Architecture (GRHC 2012). Russell is a founding member and the Associate Director of Pedagogy for the Greater Ohio Living Architecture Center\, a Regional Center of Excellence with the Green Infrastructure Foundation and GRHC. Professional projects include green roof feasibility studies for the Cincinnati Main Library\, Lloyd Library\, and UC Hospitals\, sustainable strategies for Fernald Nature Preserve Visitors Center (first LEED Platinum project in Ohio)\, and a sustainable site management plan for the US World Heritage site of Troy in Turkey. She is a Fellow in the American Society of Landscape Architects and has held several offices in the ASLA\, including national Vice President. \nWe will meet at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday\, June 21\, at the Sharon Centre (Sharon Woods Visitors Center)\, which is located at 11450 Lebanon Road\, Sharonville\, Ohio. From the park entrance on Lebanon Road\, follow the Sharon Woods Drive to the first large parking lot on the left. The visitors center is the large building at the back of the parking lot. URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/june-audubon-program-jennie-russell-on-green-roofs/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230617T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230617T120000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20230610T132534Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230610T132740Z UID:6581-1686988800-1687003200@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:Summer Wetlands Walk - Gilmore Ponds DESCRIPTION:Theme: Summer Wetlands Walk \nLocation: Gilmore MetroPark (formerly known as Gilmore Ponds Preserve) \nDate: Saturday\, June 17\, 2023\, 8:00 a.m. \nTrip Leader: Luke Thies\, (937) 733-9325\, thiesluke997@gmail.com \nMeet: In the North Gilmore Road parking lot (see directions below) \n  \n  \nGilmore Ponds is steeped in local birding history and at times can be among the most productive birding sites in our region. Gilmore Ponds is a roughly 270 acre seasonal wetland located within the Hamilton city limits in Butler County\, Ohio. Gilmore can be very wet or fairly dry from year to year or season-to-season depending on the amount of rainfall the area receives. When it is wet it can teem with water related species. At one time Gilmore Ponds was privately owned. During the 1980’s the Gilmore Ponds Conservancy\, a citizens’ conservation group\, was formed to try to protect the area from development. The Conservancy had some success\, acquired some land and got the attention of MetroParks of Butler County\, who eventually took control and now owns the property. Today Gilmore Ponds faces a new set of threats but for the time being it is still a wonderful birding site. \n  \nGilmore Ponds has a rich history of rare bird occurrences. Over the years Great Blue Herons\, Green Herons and Black-crowned Night-Herons have nested off and on at Gilmore\, but more recently Great Egrets and Double-crested Cormorants are also nesting in the heron rookery. Yellow-crowned Night-Herons\, a rare species in Ohio\, have also become regular breeders over the past several years. A number of other water related species have regularly or at least occasionally nested or summered at Gilmore Ponds over the years. This includes species such as Common Gallinule (this year)\, American Coot\, Pied-billed Grebe\, Wood Duck and Blue-winged Teal\, Sora (rails) and Least and American Bitterns. The dense brushy borders and edges and the wet woodlands are always great for a number of species of songbirds\, both breeders and migrants. Bell’s Vireo\, another rare Ohio species has also become a regular summer resident. A variety of waterfowl and shorebirds can be found during migration. In addition to birds\, a variety of other fauna and flora will likely be seen on this trip. This would include reptiles and amphibians\, butterflies\, other wildlife and wetland plants. Our trip leader\, Luke Thies\, is an excellent birder and all around naturalist and is current board member of ASO. Luke will help us find and identify the amazing diversity found at Gilmore Ponds. \n  \nThis is scheduled as a half-day trip\, which will consist of walking the trails around the wetlands. If you expect to see birds you will need binoculars. While the terrain is flat\, be warned that the walking can at times be a bit on the rough side as some trails may be overgrown and we may have to walk over some damp and muddy spots to reach some favored spots. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear. We also recommend wearing a hat and bringing water\, sun screen and insect repellent to make your trip more pleasant. There is a well-maintained portalet at the North Gilmore Road parking lot. If you have any questions feel free to contact Luke. \n  \nDirections: To reach Gilmore Ponds from I-275\, take the Route 4\, exit # 41\, and go north on Rt. 4 for about 2.5 miles. Turn right onto the Route 4 Bypass and drive about 1.5 miles to Symmes Road. Turn left onto Symmes (roundabout) and go about 1 mile to the intersection with North Gilmore Road. Turn right and drive.7 mile to the Gilmore Ponds entrance and parking lot on your right. The parking lot is just south of the RR tracks. \nLink to Gilmore MetroParks web site: https://www.yourmetroparks.net/parks/gilmore-metropark \n(Contributed by Jay Stenger) \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/summer-wetlands-walk-gilmore-ponds/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230606T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230606T203000 DTSTAMP:20260404T055213 CREATED:20230602T154230Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230602T154230Z UID:6571-1686078000-1686083400@cincinnatiaudubon.org SUMMARY:Ohio Fireflies: New & Familiar\, Matthew Speights DESCRIPTION:Ohio Fireflies: New & Familiar\, Matthew Speights\nJune 6\, 2023 at Kirby Nature Center\, Tuesday\, 7pm \nThe talk will cover his discovery of the first Ohio population of Blue Ghosts on Bender Mountain\, general firefly behavior and identification. Matthew will walk the property looking for fireflies after the talk. How to use smartphone apps for citizen science will be covered. Nearly everyone has watched fireflies flash for a brief second on warm summer nights. Many know that fireflies flash to find mates\, but fireflies flash for other\, “darker” reasons. The common Big Dipper Fireflies (Photinus pyralis) advertise both to potential mates and to predators\, signaling that they are poisonous to eat. Non-poisonous fireflies can flash in Batesian mimicry to imitate poisonous fireflies\, and some female non-poisonous fireflies (Photuris sp.) flash to attract male poisonous fireflies\, which they then devour to obtain their poisons! The flashing frequency\, flight patterns\, and colors of fireflies allow a careful observer to determine what species they are. One of the most distinct flashing patterns among fireflies was never seen in Ohio…before last year. The males of the tiny Blue Ghost Firefly (Phausis reticulata) glow a ghostly bluish green for 10-20 seconds as they hover around the forest floor\, while the flightless females never stop glowing. Although officially reported from the Southeast up to Tennessee\, last summer they were sighted for the first time near Cincinnati. \nEvent is free\, but registration required:\nhttps://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/jj9gOKuAPDI6XW5SyPIBog \nThis presentation will prepare volunteers to look for the Blue Ghost\, Phausis reticulata\, a rarity in Ohio\, that has been spotted at Bender Mountain. URL:https://cincinnatiaudubon.org/event/ohio-fireflies-new-familiar-matthew-speights/ LOCATION:OH END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR