The Audubon Society of Ohio

Prairie & Wetland Plants at Shaker Trace
2024-07-26 19:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | OH
Theme: Prairie & Wetland Plants in Bloom
Location: Miami Whitewater Forest, Shaker Trace
Date: *Friday, July 26, 2024
Meet: At *7:00 P.M. in the Baughman Road Parking Lot. See directions below.
Trip Leader: Tom Borgman, (513) 473-7696, pborgman@live.com

*Note that this is a Friday evening walk.

The focus of this trip will be on the prairie & wetland plant communities at the Shaker Trace. Note the evening start time which should help us beat the heat a bit. 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.
Identifying all of these plants can be a challenge. But our trip leader, Tom Borgman, is more than qualified in that regard. Tom is retired from the Hamilton County Park District where he worked for many years as a naturalist. Many of those years were spent working on the Shaker Trace project. Tom is a skilled botanist and overall naturalist and is a past board member of our Audubon Society Chapter. Tom’s wife, Penny Borgman, also retired from years of service with the HCPD is our ASO current President.
Tom plans to take a leisurely evening 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. Breeding birds will still be around as well as a few early migrants. Tom will point out all of these and any other wildlife we encounter.
This trip will end around dusk. This walk will cover about 2 miles, 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. Bring your binoculars if you have any.
Bring your questions about natural areas management and come prepared to enjoy an evening with friends among the grasses and flowering plants of these extensive prairie and wetland habitats. Restrooms are available in other areas of the park but there are none at Shaker Trace. 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 Tom if you have any questions.
Directions: 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 then immediately left again onto Baughman Road. Go .7 mile and look for the gravel parking lot on the right side (north) of the road just after passing the Bike/Hike Trail crosswalk.
For a Park map and other information visit the Miami Whitewater Forest website at:
https://www.greatparks.org/parks/miami-whitewater-forest

(Contributed by Jay Stenger)

Herping and Birding at Mt. Airy Forest
2024-07-21 08:00 - 12:00 | OH
Theme: Herping (finding Reptiles & Amphibians) and Birding
Location: Mt. Airy Forest
Date: Sunday, July 21, 2024
Meet: At 8:00 A.M. in the first parking lot on Blue Spruce Rd (Park Road) from the main Colerain Avenue entrance. See directions below.
Leader: Ryan Jorgensen, (630) 333-2631, jorgensen28ryan@gmail.com

The 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 finding some are good because our field trip leader, Ryan Jorgensen, is an expert herpetologist. Ryan has a Master’s degree in Biological Science at UC where he specialized in herpetology. His research is on salamanders and snakes, particularly their muscular activity during locomotion. He is also a skilled birder and overall naturalist. So it goes without saying that we will be looking for birds and other wildlife as well.
My. Airy Forest is the largest Cincinnati Park. The Park consists of 1,459 acres of mostly forest and open park habitats. The Park is an exceptional and somewhat underrated birding location and host a great diversity of wildlife species within the city limits. Somewhat surprisingly, July can be a difficult time of the year to find herps, mostly due to extreme heat. For cold blooded animals, most species of herps can be effected by extreme temperatures, especially during the day. None-the-less, Ryan figures we should be able to find at least a few specimens and possibly more with a little luck.
Ryan has laid out about a 2 mile loop route that we will walk as he investigates and probes all the hidden spots where our subjects may be hiding or basking. Ryan expects to “flip” ground cover and check along ponds and a small creek. Turtles and frogs should be seen and Ryan expects to find at least one or two salamanders. He also expects to find a few snakes, but in extremely hot weather that can’t be guaranteed. Even though mid-July is nearing the end of the breeding bird season plenty of birds are still around including the young of the year. Ryan’s birding skills will come in handy for them.
This trip will consist totally of walking along about a 2 mile route that Ryan has laid out. But walking will be leisurely and over mostly flat terrain with lots of stops to view wildlife. Parts of the rout may be damp or wet, so good footwear is advised. Binoculars will aid you in viewing birds and other and are advised. July can be hot so we recommend wearing a hat and bringing water, sunscreen and insect repellent to make your trip more comfortable. Restrooms are available in the Park. This trip is expected to last about three to four hours. Come on out and join Ryan for what should prove to be a unique field trip on what will hopefully be a pleasant summer day. If you have any questions feel free to contact Ryan.
Directions: Mt. Airy Forest is located at 5083 Colerain Avenue. To get to our meeting spot enter the Park from the main Colerain entrance. This Park rd. is named Blue Spruce Rd. Go straight, staying on Blue Spruce for.2 mile. The parking lot will be on your right side. Turn in to Park and look for our group.
Visit the Mt. Airy website at the link below.
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks/visit-a-park/find-a-parkfacility/mt-airy-forest/

(Contributed by Jay Stenger)

Nature Walk at the Oxbow
2024-07-20 08:00 - 11:00 | OH
Meet at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 20, in the Hardintown end Oxbow Parking Lot. This general nature walk will be led by trip leader Dave Helm for a very interesting summer morning visit into the Oxbow. Dave, a long time Oxbow member and advocate, is an exceptional all around naturalist and expert level birder. Dave knows the Oxbow area extremely well and has a great knowledge of birds, plants, butterflies and other wildlife.
There are many breeding songbirds in the Oxbow. Bald Eagles now breed in the Oxbow area and are always a possibility. Double-crested Cormorants are now regular summer residents in the Oxbow, but are they breeding here? Black-crowned Night-Herons have always been present during the summer, but where do they breed? These questions illustrate what we can still learn. July also marks the very beginning of southward shorebird migration in the Oxbow area, so some shorebirds can be expected. Heron and Great Egret numbers will also begin building and it is a good time to find one of the rarer species of long-legged waders such as Little Blue Heron or Snowy Egret.
There is a great diversity of plants found in the Oxbow and the prairie plants in our grassland should be in bloom at this season. Amphibians, such as frogs, are at their peak in mid-summer. We should see many interesting plants, birds, dragonflies, butterflies, turtles and other wildlife on this morning walk.
Dave plans to spend the morning mostly walking around Oxbow Lake and Osprey Lake, interrupted by a short drive or two to move from one location to another. The walking will be at a slow pace over flat terrain with a lot of stopping to look at birds and plants. If time permits, Dave may also take a look at Lost Bridge to see what we can find along the Great Miami River and the nearby ponds.
This trip will end before noon. We suggest long pants and decent footwear for walking in tall grass and possibly mud. You also might consider wearing a hat and bringing water, sunscreen and insect repellent to help make your trip more comfortable. There are no restrooms available in the Oxbow but there are plenty of nearby businesses with restroom facilities. If you have any questions feel free to contact Dave, at (513) 403-4519, email helmmd@icloud.com.

July Program - Reptiles and Amphibians of the Cincinnati Region
2024-07-17 19:00 - 21:00 | OH
Our monthly program will feature Ryan Jorgensen who will present his program entitled “The Families of Reptiles & Amphibians of the Cincinnati Region”. This program will be held at the Sharon Woods Visitor Center on Wednesday July 17th beginning at 7:00 PM. The visitor center is located at 11450 Lebanon Road, Sharonville, OH 45241

Ryan’s program will focus on the local families of reptiles and amphibians and their specific unique characteristics that suit them for their various habitats. He will cover their relationships to other families and whether they are cosmopolitan families or if they are North American specific.

Ryan attended the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign where he received his BS in Integrative Biology, and studied Four-toed Salamander ecology. From there Ryan went to the University of Cincinnati to receiver his MS in Biological Sciences. At UC Ryan studied arboreal snake locomotion and worked on several published papers on the topic. He was also a TA for Ornithology while at UC. After graduation Ryan worked at Northwestern in Cardiology and currently works at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital in Cancer Biology. We are also proud to announce that Ryan has recently become an ASO board member.

Ryan is a life-long naturalist specializing in reptiles and amphibians and has been a birder for over a decade. We hope to see you there for what should be a unique program.

Note that Ryan will also be leading an ASO field trip on Sunday, July 21st. The focus of that trip will be, yes, you guessed it, finding reptiles and amphibians. Brian is also a skilled birder and will point out the birds we see and hear. That trip will be held at the Mt. Airy arboretum. See the separate writeup on the field trip for details.
(Contributed by Jay Stenger)

Late Summer Nature Walk at Spring Grove Cemetery
2024-07-14 09:00 - 12:00 | OH
Theme: Late Summer General Nature Walk
Location: Spring Grove Cemetery
Date: Sunday, July 14, 2024
Meet: 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).
Leader: Denis Conover, (513) 390-0863, conovedg@hotmail.com
The theme of this field trip will be a general summer nature walk. Come out and join UC professor, and skilled botanist and naturalist Denis Conover as he leads us on a mid-morning summer walk through the beautiful grounds of Spring Grove Cemetery. Denis has been involved in various types of botanical research since 1981 and is a professor in the department of Biological Sciences at the University of Cincinnati. He is also a current board member of our Audubon Society.
This is a beautiful time of the year and vegetation will be at peak on this date. Denis will identify the tremendous diversity of trees, shrubs and other plants that can be found here and expound on their ecology. Denis will point out our native flora, invasive species, ornamental plantings and late summer plants that bloom at this season, as well as show us some of the many national and state champion trees found here. Denis also loves birds and will be sure to spend time observing them and any other wildlife we come across. So come along and join Denis on what should be a pleasant morning walk and gain some tips and insight on plant identification and the breeding birds found at the cemetery.
Participants should be prepared for a few hours of 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. We suggest wearing good comfortable footwear. Binoculars are not necessary to see plants but are recommended if you have them or are interested in birds. July can be hot so we recommend wearing a hat and bringing water, sunscreen and insect repellent. Restrooms are available at the cemetery office. If you have any questions feel free to contact Denis.
Directions: 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.
Spring Grove Cemetery website:
https://www.springgrove.org/locations/spring-grove-cemetery-arboretum/#hrs
Spring Grove Cemetery Map:
https://assets.takeshape.io/af54a46e-9d1d-4a13-84ea-ea820654ba30/dev/66f7f564-13e7-4da3-9599-d5fc44c9d764/Spring%20Grove%20Cemetery%20and%20Arboretum%20Map.pdf

(Contributed by Jay Stenger)

Hamilton County Butterfly Count
2024-07-06 09:00 - 17:00 | OH
Each year, Bob Nuhn leads the Hamilton County count for the North American Butterfly Assoication. Much like Audubon’s Christmas Bird Count, the butterfly counts compile all the butterflies seen wihtin a 15-mile diameter circle, on a single day near July 4.
This year’s count will be held on Saturday, July 6th, meeting at the harbor snack bar shelter at Miami Whitewater Forest at 9 a.m. After 3 years of rain, please pray for no rain! If it does, the rain date will be Sunday, July 7th. Please remember to dress accordingly as we will be in natural areas of high grass/forbs, possible ticks and chiggers. A little OFF on your socks and sunscreen on your skin goes a long way to ward off pests and sunburn. Please remember water, binoculars, and field guides if you have them. If you know of someone interested in coming out for all or part of this count, please invite them! As always, knowledge of butterflies is not essential; you will pick some of that up from count leaders. What we need are your eyes in locating butterflies. Remember to sign in when you come to the harbor since NABA (North American Butterfly Association) wants to know how many participants are counting. There is no need to stay all day; any time you can spare will be deeply appreciated! Although most counting parties will be at MWF, our group will also hit Fernald Park in the early p.m., then finishing up at Mitchell Memorial Forest. We have noticed a major reduction in the number of butterflies we have found recently compared to the earlier years of the count. Why? Increased usage of pesticides, habitat fragmentation/degradation and the associated reduction in larval foodplants and adult nectar sources, and introduced pathogens initially meant to control injurious insects but now also attacking some beneficial insects including butterflies.
If you need to contact Bob on the count day and/or if you arrive in the afternoon and don’t know where counting parties are located, please don’t hesitate to call him on his cell: 513-479-8941. Thank you for your interest in our local plants and wildlife, including insects! We are looking forward to seeing some interesting species this year, hopefully with the sun assisting!

Breeding Birds and Nature at Indian Creek
2024-06-22 08:00 - 12:00 | OH
Theme: Breeding Birds & General Nature Walk
Location: Indian Creek State Wildlife Area
Date: Saturday, June 22, 2024
Meet: At 8:00 AM at the Marathon Gas & Food Mart in Fayetteville Ohio, located on the northwest corner of the US 50 & SR 68 intersections in Fayetteville. See directions below.
Leader: Bill Stanley, (513) 324-2796, tyrannus58@gmail.com
We have not visited this unique area for quite a while, but prior trips have always proved popular and successful. If you have never been to this location you are in for a surprise.
Located about 20 miles east of Milford and just south of US 50 the 1800 acre Indian Creek State Wildlife Area (SWA), is a little known but wonderful hidden gem that can teem with birds and other wildlife and provides excellent birding at any season. Woodlands, weedy and brushy fields, many marshy ponds, wooded riparian Indian Creek and a managed wetland create a multitude of habitats which in turn attract a diversity of birds and other species. This quiet and little visited area has miles of quiet gravel roads which makes for easy access and walking.
On this date breeding birds should be abundant. Many songbirds, raptors and wetland birds should be found. Some interesting species that are likely present include Northern Bobwhite, Red-headed Woodpecker, Bell’s Vireo, Blue Grosbeak, and several breeding warbler species including Kentucky, Blue-winged, Prairie, Northern Parula, Yellow-throated to name a few. Some species of butterflies, reptiles & amphibians and some mammals will likely be seen.
Our trip leader, Bill Stanley, is a very skilled and veteran birder and naturalist who knows this area very well. Bill is current board member of our Audubon Society and is involved in many natural history organizations in our area. We will meet Bill at the Fayetteville Marathon Station (see directions below) and caravan from there. Indian Creek is easily accessed off of US 50 and is only about a 3 minute drive from our meeting spot. Expect mostly walking on this trip, but the walking will be moderate over level ground and at a leisurely birders pace. Bill will probably occasionally drive from one stop to another.
Bill figures this trip will last no later than noon. It can be hot in June so you may want to bring water, sun screen, insect repellent and a hat to make your trip more comfortable. Bill will plan restroom stops along the way. There is a restroom at our meeting location and a few primitive facilities at Indian Creek. Feel free to contact Bill if you have any questions.

Directions to Marathon Gas & Food Mart in Fayetteville, Ohio:
From I-275 at the Milford Parkway/US 50 Exit # 59, take US 50 east for about 20 miles to the intersection of US 68 in Fayetteville, Ohio. The Marathon Station is located on the NW corner. Meet in the Parking Lot but park away from the front doors if possible.
Indian Creek SWA website:
https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/indian-creek-wildlife-area

(Contributed by Jay Stenger)

Breeding Birds at Middle Creek Park
2024-06-15 07:30 - 12:00 | OH
Theme: Breeding Birds in Riparian & Mature Forests
Location: Boone County Cliffs Area & Middle Creek Park & Road. Boone County, Kentucky
Date: Saturday, June 15, 2024
Meeting Time & Place: At 7:30 AM in the Middle Creek Park Parking Lot, Boone County, Kentucky. (See directions below).
Leader: Ann Oliver, (513) 307-0929, annieobirder@yahoo.com

Middle Creek Park (a 230 acre Boone County Park) Dinsmore Woods Preserve and the Boone County Cliffs Preserve (a Nature Conservancy property) are all nestled in the wooded hills of western Boone County, Kentucky. The picturesque Middle Creek Road and Middle Creek run between these three locations and comprise one of the most beautiful riparian corridors in our region. Join our trip leader, Ann Oliver, as she explores this fascinating area on what should be a pleasant morning walk in early summer. Ann is an experienced and highly skilled birder and long-time ASO advocate and current board member. Ann has led many field trips for ASO and other organizations, including several to this location, so she knows this area very well.
Spring migration will be over by this date, but at least 13 species of warblers and many other birds breed along the Middle Creek and in the forested hillsides of this beautiful area. The birding in this area can be phenomenal.
The whole region is forested and contains some old-growth forest habitat reliable for breeding Worm-eating Warblers which is generally rare in most of our region. Other breeding forest birds are also expected, including Broad-winged Hawk, Cerulean, Hooded and Kentucky Warblers, Ovenbird, Louisiana Waterthrush and both Scarlet & Summer Tanagers. Middle Creek, which flows through the area, is loaded with Northern Parula’s, Yellow-throated Warblers and numerous other breeding birds. Prairie Warblers & Yellow-breasted Chats are common in adjacent successional areas.
Ann plans to begin the trip at Middle Creek Park and Dinsmore Woods Nature Preserve and spend some time walking and birding along the trails in these adjacent and wonderful parks. Ann then plans to make several driving stops along picturesque Middle Creek Road. Middle Creek Road is an excellent birding spot, but it is narrow and has limited space to pull off. Nonetheless we should be able to walk a good bit of this lovely secluded and little used road. We will finish this section of the trip near the “closed” Boone County Cliffs Preserve. The birding is excellent along the road fronting the Preserve. For those who wish, we’ll next drive a mile or so further out KY 18 to Belleview’s The Conservancy Park, a mix of forty-five acres of prairie, woodland, lake and hillsides on a reclaimed gravel pit. Yellow-breasted Chats, Orchard Orioles and abundant butterflies can be found here. Blue Grosbeaks can also be found in several places in the area.
This trip will end around noon and will consist mostly of moderate walking along the trails at Middle Creek Park, and a bit more along Middle Creek Road. Also note that there are no restrooms in any of these places, but a port-o-let is usually available at Middle Creek Park. If nature calls you’ll have to drive back to civilization or find a quiet spot. Comfortable shoes, water, sun screen and insect repellent will all make your trip more enjoyable. Contact Ann if you have any questions.

Directions to Middle Creek Park:
From I-75: from I-75 take Kentucky 18, exit # 18, at Florence and go west. When you reach Burlington, KY, continue for 6.5 miles to the Middle Creek Park entrance, which will be on your left (south side of KY 18). The entrance and parking lot is just a short distance past Middle Creek Rd.
Directions from the west: Take I-275 south and cross the Ohio River. After crossing the river take the first exit, which is KY 8, exit # 11. Turn right (west) onto KY 8, which immediately becomes KY 20 after a short distance. Continue west and then south on KY 20 for about 12 miles. At the intersection with KY 18, turn left or east onto KY 18 and go about 1 mile. The entrance to Middle Creek Park will be on your right (south side of KY 18). Middle Creek Rd. is just a short distance ahead.
For directions, a map and information about Middle Creek Park and Dinsmore Woods Nature Preserve (Boone County KY Parks) go to the following webpages:
https://www.boonecountyky.org/departments/parks/middle_creek_park.php
https://www.boonecountyky.org/departments/parks/dinsmore_woods.php
For further info on the Nature Conservancy’s Boone County Cliffs go to the following webpage:
https://www.boonecountyky.org/departments/parks/boone_cliffs.php
(Contributed by Jay Stenger)

Fireflies at Fernald Preserve
2024-06-07 19:00 - 22:00 | OH
Lighting up the Shadows: The Secret Lives of Fireflies, Lightning Bugs, & Glow-worms

Date: Friday, June 7, 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. There will be an indoor presentation followed by an outside exploration at dusk to look for fireflies.
Location : Fernald Preserve – this will be a joint program with Audubon and Fernald, and will be held at the Fernald Preserve Visitor Center.
Presenter: Matthew Speights, matthewspeights@gmail.com
As children, we loved to catch fireflies (a.k.a. lightning bugs) on warm, summer nights, but few of us realized the secrets these insects were hiding. During our talk, you’ll discover the hidden world of fireflies and learn about their biology, behaviors, lifestyles, and survival mechanisms. You’ll learn how to identify local species, why many fireflies are threatened today, and what you can do to advance firefly conservation. Following the talk, we’ll walk the grounds to observe and identify fireflies.
Matthew Speights is an avocational naturalist with interests in botany, entomology, and paleontology. As a young boy, he experienced the common dinosaur craze, but this grew from a phase into a permanent nature obsession that currently manifests through educational outreach, writing, and speaking about botany, orchid cultivation, terrarium construction, native gardening, fireflies, and paleontology. In 2022, he discovered the first population of a firefly previously unreported in Ohio, the Blue Ghost (Phausis reticulata). Since then, he has collaborated with local conservation organizations and city and county parks to do educational outreach and field research on firefly distribution in the Midwest. He is currently trying to modify his native garden to attract even more fireflies.
About Fernald Preserve: The Fernald Preserve was opened to the public in August 2008 and is the property of the federal government. The site is operated by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Legacy Management. Once the location of a uranium foundry that served as the first link in America’s nuclear weapon’s production cycle, the Fernald property has undergone a $4.4 billion environmental cleanup and ecological restoration. The ecological restoration of the property was accomplished using plants and grasses native to southwestern Ohio that were identified in an 1819 land survey of the area.
The Fernald Preserve features 140 acres of wetland habitat, 400 acres of forests and 360 acres of grasslands including tall grass prairies. The preserve currently has about 2.5 miles of trails with additional trail construction planned for 2009. Lodge Pond trail, located along the site’s access road approximately 1/8 mile from the Willey Road entrance, provides access to wetlands and prairies. In addition to a wide range of migratory waterfowl, this area provides excellent viewing opportunities for a variety of prairie species including dickcissels, bobolinks, grasshopper sparrows and eastern meadowlarks. Shingle Oak trail primarily spans woodland habitat and is a good choice for viewing neo-tropical migrants as well as a variety of summer nesters. The Weapons-to-Wetlands trail features an overlook that provides excellent viewing for migrating waterfowl in the spring and fall as well as a variety of raptors in the winter months. The 3.5 mile Trestle Trail, completed in September 2009, spans prairies, upland forests, open water and a riparian corridor. (special note: For individuals who might be concerned about visiting a former uranium foundry, be assured that the property has been cleaned to standards established by site neighbors and nearby communities. These standards were approved by both the U.S and Ohio Environmental Protection Agencies as being protective of human health and the environment.)
Directions: Fernald Preserve is located northwest of Cincinnati at 7400 Willey Road, Hamilton, Ohio 45013. From downtown Cincinnati, take I-75 N to I-74 W (toward Indianapolis) to Exit 7, SR 128 (Hamilton-Cleves Highway). Travel north on 128 through Miamitown for 7 miles to Willey Road. Turn left on Willey Road for ¼ mile to the Fernald Preserve access road.

Spring Wildflowers and Birds at Spring Grove Cemetery
2024-05-26 08:30 - 12:00 | OH
Theme: Spring Wildflowers, Blooms, Buds and Birds
Location: Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum
Date: Sunday, May 26, 2024
Meet: At 8:30 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).
Leader: Denis Conover, (513) 390-0863, conovedg@hotmail.com
Spring 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 native and ornamental plants can be found here. The focus of this field trip will be on spring wildflowers, blooms and buds, birds, and all other aspects of nature. 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. 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 is also a current board member of our local Audubon Society. Denis also has a great interest in birds and will equally focus on them. Spring songbird migration will be winding down by this date but many species will be well into their breeding cycle. Spring Grove has a great birding reputation, especially during the spring. I think it is also safe to say that Spring Grove Cemetery is among Denis’s favorite places as he leads many field trips here.
Denis’s plan is to take us on a long leisurely spring morning walk through the cemetery observing what will be abundant signs of spring. Denis will also show us an undeveloped forested section of the cemetery that should be carpeted with woodland wildflowers. Native plants, ornamental plantings, invasive species, budding shrubs and trees and birds (resident and late spring migrants) will all be pointed out, identified and discussed. Other than a short drive here or there to move to a different part of the cemetery, 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 damp or wet grass. We suggest wearing comfortable waterproof footwear. Binoculars are necessary to see birds well. Restrooms are available at the cemetery office. If you have any questions feel free to contact Denis.
Directions: 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.
Spring Grove Cemetery website:
https://www.springgrove.org/locations/spring-grove-cemetery-arboretum/#hrs
Spring Grove Cemetery Map:
https://assets.takeshape.io/af54a46e-9d1d-4a13-84ea-ea820654ba30/dev/66f7f564-13e7-4da3-9599-d5fc44c9d764/Spring%20Grove%20Cemetery%20and%20Arboretum%20Map.pdf

(Contributed by Jay Stenger)

Late Spring Migration at Grailville
2024-05-19 08:00 - 12:00 | OH
Theme: Late Spring Migration & New Nature Preserve Visit
Location: Cardinal Nature Preserve at Grailville
Date & Time: Sunday, May 19th, 2024, 8:00 AM
Meet: We will meet at Cardinal’s new nature preserve at Grailville, located on the south side of O’Bannonville Rd. outside of Loveland
Leader: Ann Oliver, (513) 307-0929, annieobirder@yahoo.com
Grailville is an excellent and under-birded area within the city limits of Loveland. Cardinal Land Conservancy, The Grail in the US, and Clermont County Parks, collectively protect approximately 280 acres of greenspace that includes forest, old fields, meadows, ponds, and riparian areas. The plan for this field trip is to take a leisurely walk through all three properties to explore the diversity of habitats at Grailville. Most of the trails will be mown grass paths and we expect the trip to end around 11:00.
Grailville is a site rich in history. The women of the Grail have been stewarding the property since 1944. In 2017 and 2018, Clermont County Park district acquired 112 acres from the Grail and plans to open their property to the public in the near future. This April, Cardinal Land Conservancy acquired 89 acres from the Grail and will open it to the public in 2024. The Grail still owns approximately 76 acres that are open to the public. The three organizations intend to connect the three properties with hiking trails and protect the natural value of the land. A Cardinal staff member will be present to share Cardinal’s plans for restoring the area which will be beginning this summer.
More information on Cardinal Land Conservancy: https://www.cardinallandconservancy.org/2023/10/18/cardinal-secures-grailville/
More information about Grail in the US:
https://www.grail-us.org/
More information about Clermont County Park District Property:
https://www.clermontparks.org/
Location: Cardinal’s nature preserve at Grailville is located within Loveland on the south side of O’Bannonville Rd. Be aware that O’Bannonville Rd. is currently closed between Loveland and Grailville so the property must be approached from the east.
The coordinates of Cardinal’s driveway is 39.265638, -84.242567, which can be placed directly into a mapping app such as Google Maps. The gravel drive extends south off of O’Bannonville Rd. approximately 70 yards east of the entrance to The Grail’s property, which is on the northside of the road. Follow the gravel road to the parking area.
Please see the aerial map below for reference. The Cardinal driveway is red and the meeting parking lot is the yellow dot. The area will be signed.

(Contributed by Jay Stenger)

Spring Migration & Wetland Biodiversity at Gilmore Ponds
2024-05-04 08:00 - 12:00 | OH
Theme: Spring Migration & Wetland Biodiversity
Location: Gilmore Ponds Preserve
Date & Time: Saturday, May 4, 2024, 8:00 AM
Meet: We will meet in the Gilmore Ponds south parking lot located at the intersection of Symmes Rd and Bilstein Blvd. (See directions below)
Leader: Dave Helm, (513) 403-4519, helmmd@icloud.com

Gilmore Ponds is steeped in local birding history and at times can be among the most productive birding sites in our region. The Audubon Society has named it an “Important Bird Area”. Gilmore Ponds is a roughly 270 acre seasonal wetland located in south central Butler County with considerable adjacent privately owned acreage. 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. The dense brushy borders and edges and the wet woodlands are always great for warblers and other migrant songbirds during spring and fall migration. This is one of the wet seasons so we can expect a diversity of species on this trip. At one time Gilmore Ponds was privately owned. During the 1980’s the Gilmore Ponds Conservancy, a citizen’s 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 the Butler County Park District, 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.
Migrant and resident warblers (this is a great Prothonotary Warbler spot) and other songbirds should abound and be very vocal on this date. The wetlands may hold shorebirds, rails, bitterns, herons, egrets and teal. Many marsh species which normally breed only in the northern half of the state have been recorded breeding here over the years during wet spring and summers. Over the past few years the resident Great Blue Heron, Green Heron and Black-crowned Night-Heron colonies have been joined by nesting Great Egrets and Double-crested Cormorants. Most recently, and perhaps most interestingly, Yellow-crowned Night-Herons, which are considered very rare breeding birds in Ohio, have begun successfully nesting here.
Dave Helm, our trip leader, is an expert and skilled birder, botanist, and all-around naturalist. He is also a long-time Audubon Society advocate. With Dave’s expert help we can expect to find a great diversity of species on our walk and almost any species that migrates through our region can be expected here. Dave will also bring our attention to the diverse flora and other fauna of this wonderful wetland.
Gilmore Ponds has a log loop trail, with several shorter side trails, and a few observation decks. Dave’s plan is to follow these trails throughout the preserve. This entire trip will be on foot, but it will consist of flat terrain and at a leisurely birders pace. While the terrain is flat, be warned that the walking could be a bit on the rough side as the trails may become overgrown at times and there may be a few wet or muddy spots. To make your walk more comfortable we recommend waterproof footwear, wearing long pants and bringing sunscreen, insect repellent and water. There are also no restrooms available on the preserve. But for those of us who don’t mind stomping the brush there will be plenty of birds, plants and other animals to see and a unique habitat to explore
This is scheduled as a half-day trip and will end around noon. Butler County Parks requires non-residents to purchase a Motor Vehicle Permit. They can be purchased from Park Rangers if you see one. If you have any questions feel free to contact Dave.
Location: Gilmore Ponds is located in Fairfield in south central Butler County. Gilmore Ponds proper is bounded on the south by Symmes Road, on the east by the Route 4 Bypass, on the west by North Gilmore Road and on the north by the Butler County Regional Airport. There is parking lot on Symmes Road at the intersection of Bilstein Blvd. and another parking lot on N. Gilmore Rd. just south of the RR tracks. We will meet in the Symmes Rd/Bilstein Blvd Parking Lot.
There are several ways to get to Gilmore Ponds. One way is described below.
Directions 1: 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 go about 1.5 miles to Symmes Road. Turn left onto Symmes and go about .5 mile and make a right turn into the Gilmore Ponds parking lot, located directly across from Bilstein Blvd.
Directions 2: You could also take the I-275 Winton Rd exit # 39 and go north on Winton Rd. Be aware that Winton Rd. changes its name to South Gilmore Road in Butler County. Continue north on S. Gilmore Rd to the intersection/stop light at Rt. 4. Cross Rt. 4 and go straight. This road becomes Bilstein Blvd. Continue on Bilstein Blvd to the T intersection with Symmes Road. Go straight through the stoplight and into the Symmes Road Parking Lot.
For preserve information, directions and a trail map visit the Butler County Gilmore Ponds web page link below
https://www.yourmetroparks.net/parks/gilmore-metropark

(Contributed by Jay Stenger)

April Program - Carol Trosset
2024-04-29 19:00 - 21:00 | Sharon Woods Visitor Center, 11450 Lebanon Road, Cincinnati, OH, 45241, United States
Wildflowers and Birds in an Acre of Restored Woodland
Presented by Carol Trosset
Monday, April 29, 2024, 7:00 p.m.
Sharon Woods Visitor Center
Beginning in the 1950s, the Trosset family restored an acre of woodland in Evendale by letting the trees grow and repopulating the property with a large variety of native wildflowers. Using 40 years of weekly records collected by her mother, Carol will show us the richness of the resulting habitat, which has hosted 122 species of birds and 15 species of mammals. Data on wildflower bloom dates make it possible to see how climate change is affecting our local ephemeral wildflowers. Changes in the habitat over 70 years illustrate the opportunities and challenges of small-scale habitat restoration.
Carol Trosset grew up in Cincinnati studying natural history with her family and as a member of several local organizations, and recently returned here in retirement. She is the author of The Woods: The Natural History of an Acre in Southwestern Ohio, published in 2023 by the Ohio Biological Survey.
Sharon Woods Visitor Center is located at 11450 Lebanon Road, Sharonville, Ohio 45241 0.8 miles south of I-275.

Spring Wildflowers and Birds at Spring Grove Cemetery
2024-04-21 10:00 - 12:00 | OH
Theme: Spring Wildflowers, Blooms, Buds and Birds
Location: Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum
Date: Sunday, April 21, 2024
Meet: 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).
Leader: Denis Conover, (513) 390-0863, conovedg@hotmail.com
Spring 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 native and ornamental plants can be found here. The focus of this field trip will be on early spring wildflowers, blooms and buds, but birds, as well as all other aspects of nature will not be ignored. 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. 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 is also a current board member of our local Audubon Society. Denis also has a great interest in birds and will equally focus on them. Spring songbird migration will be near peak on this date and Spring Grove has a great birding reputation, especially during the spring. I think it is also safe to say that Spring Grove Cemetery is among Denis’s favorite places.
Denis’s plan is to take us on a long leisurely spring morning walk through the cemetery observing what will be abundant signs of spring. Denis will also show us an undeveloped forested section of the cemetery that should be carpeted with woodland wildflowers. Native plants, ornamental plantings, invasive species, budding shrubs and trees and birds (resident and early spring migrants) will all be pointed out, identified and discussed. Other than a short drive here or there to move to a different part of the cemetery, 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 damp or wet grass. We suggest wearing comfortable waterproof footwear. Binoculars are necessary to see birds well. Restrooms are available at the cemetery office. If you have any questions feel free to contact Denis.
Directions: 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.
Spring Grove Cemetery website:
https://www.springgrove.org/locations/spring-grove-cemetery-arboretum/#hrs
Spring Grove Cemetery Map:
(Click on or cut and paste into your browser)
https://assets.takeshape.io/af54a46e-9d1d-4a13-84ea-ea820654ba30/dev/66f7f564-13e7-4da3-9599-d5fc44c9d764/Spring%20Grove%20Cemetery%20and%20Arboretum%20Map.pdf

(Contributed by Jay Stenger)

Spring Migration at Shawnee Lookout and Lost Bridge
2024-04-13 08:00 - 12:00 | OH
Theme: Spring Migration
Location: Shawnee Lookout Park and Lost Bridge
Date: Saturday, April 13, 2024, 8:00 AM
Meet: at the upper Boat Ramp parking lot across from the main entrance to Shawnee Lookout Park
Leader: Ann Oliver, (513) 307-0929, annieobirder@yahoo.com

By the middle of April spring will be in full swing and this winter’s weather forgotten. Spring migration in general will be near peak and a diversity of avian species should be found in the Lower Great Miami River Valley at this season. In addition, many woodland plants and wildflowers will be in bud and bloom, adding their beauty to the natural scene. Ann Oliver, our trip leader, is an extremely skilled birder and conservationist who has birded our area for many years. Ann is a long-time Audubon Society advocate and current board member. In addition to her local birding knowledge, Ann has birded all across the United States and the world in search of birds. Ann is also very familiar with Shawnee Lookout and her experience will certainly come in handy as birds should be abundant and vocal on this date.
The month of April coincides with the spring migration of a diverse number of families of birds. Ducks, herons and egrets, shorebirds, terns & gulls, raptors (including Bald Eagles) and migrant & returning summer songbirds (including several warbler species) are all expected on this date. Ann’s plan is to first focus on spring migrant songbirds and other woodland species at Shawnee Lookout Park. Towards the end of the morning, Ann plans to make a stop at Lost Bridge and the adjacent ponds to look for water birds. Depending on time and current reports, Ann might visit another nearby spot.
We encourage you to come out with Ann and witness the great diversity of spring migration on what should be a beautiful spring morning in the Shawnee Lookout area. Most 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. It goes without saying that binoculars are necessary for seeing birds well. This field trip will end sometime around noon. Restrooms are available at Shawnee Lookout. Feel free to contact Ann if you have any questions.
*Note: A Great Parks motor vehicle permit is required at Shawnee Lookout. Permits are $10 annual or $5 daily for residents of Hamilton County and $16 annual or $8 daily for non-residents

Directions to Shawnee Lookout Park:
Shawnee Lookout is located at 2008 Lawrenceburg Road, North Bend Ohio 45052. To get there from I-275, take the Kilby Road Exit # 21. Turn right onto Kilby Rd and go the short distance to the light at US 50 and turn right. Go about 1.7 miles to Lawrenceburg Road and turn left at the light. Follow Lawrenceburg Road across the bridge (Lost Bridge) over the Great Miami River. Turn right at the stop sign and go about 1.5 miles to the Upper Boat Ramp Parking Lot on the right, directly across the street from the Shawnee Lookout Park entrance.
Shawnee Lookout Website:
https://www.greatparks.org/parks/shawnee-lookout

(Contributed by Jay Stenger)

Nocturnal Vocalizations in a Marsh - Miami Whitewater Wetlands
2024-03-29 19:00 - 21:00 | OH
Theme: Nocturnal Vocalizations in a Marsh
Location: Miami Whitewater Park (Shaker Trace Wetlands)
Date: Friday Evening, March 29, 2024
Meet: At 7:00 P.M. in the Baughman Road Parking Lot (see directions below)
Leader: Brian Keane, (513) 961-4476, keaneb@muohio.edu

Join us for this unique field trip, the general theme of which is night sounds, or more specifically, nocturnal vocalizations. This trip has proven to be quite popular over the past many years and has become an annual event. If you’re looking for something different you might not want to miss this one.
Join our trip leader Brian Keene for what should be a leisurely evening/night walk around the Miami Whitewater Wetlands known as Shaker Trace. Brian is a Zoology Professor at Miami University and is a past president and current board member of our Audubon Chapter. Brian is a skilled naturalist and an expert in vertebrate zoology. His goal on this night will be to find and identify a variety of wildlife by ear.
Brian plans to begin the trip with a leisurely walk around the marsh for about an hour before sunset. On our walk around the marsh we should see several species of waterfowl, Wilson’s Snipe, Northern Harrier and other hawks and songbirds. At dusk we will listen for the raspy flight calls of snipe and the “peenting” of American Woodcock. Once woodcock are located by sound we will be able to watch their courtship displays, at least until it becomes too dark to see them. We should hear many and see several. Once darkness has completely fallen we will turn our attention to the amphibian chorus which should be quite loud in this wetland habitat. American Toads, Spring Peepers and Chorus Frogs should dominate the musical, but Wood Frogs and Leopard Frogs might be heard as well. Other species that might possibly be heard during our walk would be our resident owls. There is no guarantee here, but Great Horned, Barred and Eastern Screech are all locally present. Even howling coyotes are possible as they are becoming quite common in our rural areas. We are still a week or two early on this date for rails and bitterns, but they are known for their nocturnal vocalizations as well. So come out and join Brian for what will most certainly be a fun and interesting trip under a night sky.
Note that sunset on March 29th will be 7:59 PM and Civil Twilight ends (becomes totally dark) at 8:26 PM. The trip will consist of level, moderate walking. However the trails through the wetlands are not paved and can be damp and muddy, so wear appropriate footwear. Heavy rain at the time will cancel this trip but we have set a rain date for the following evening, Saturday March 30th, same time, and same place.
This trip should end sometime around 09:30 PM. There are no restroom facilities at the Miami Whitewater wetlands, but they are available in the main park area nearby. It can be very cold on this date, especially in a marsh at night, so dress accordingly. Binoculars are not essential on this trip but are highly recommended. A Hamilton County Park Motor Vehicle Permit is required ($5.00 daily, $10.00 annual) at Miami Whitewater for each vehicle. If you have any questions feel free to contact Brian.
Directions: We will begin our walk at 7:00 p.m. sharp from the wetlands parking area on Baughman Road, so try to arrive a bit before 7:00. From I-74, take the Dry Fork Road exit # 3, and turn right. Continue past West Rd, and stay on Dry Fork until it ends. Turn right onto New Haven Road. At the first stop sign, turn left onto Oxford Road, and then immediately left again onto Baughman Road. Go about .6 of a mile to the parking area on the right side of the road, just past the bike trail crossing.

For a park map, directions and other info visit the Miami Whitewater/Great Parks website.
http://greatparks.org/parks/miami-whitewater-forest

(Contributed by Jay Stenger)

March Program - DeVere Burt on John James Audubon
2024-03-19 19:00 - 20:30 | Sharon Woods Visitor Center, 11450 Lebanon Road, Cincinnati, OH, 45241, United States
Our March program will be held on Tuesday, March 19 at 7p.m. at the Sharon Woods Visitor Center, located at 11450 Lebanon Road, Sharonville, Ohio 45241.
We will feature DeVere Burt, telling us about John James Audubon.
As a college student from Iowa, DeVere Burt found several new species of fleas in the Antarctic. After this prelude to a remarkable career, DeVere went on to serve as an illustrator for the Naval Medical Research Unit in Cairo, the regional vice president for the Nature Conservancy in the Midwest, and as the CEO of the Cincinnati Museum Center. Under his leadership the Museum led expeditions around the world, began research that continues today, and moved into Union Terminal.
Throughout it all, DeVere also remained devoted to art, taking pencil and paint to paper and canvas. His works illustrated Museum publications and are widely displayed in collections; he is a member of the Society of Animal Artists; and he helped found of the Masterworks for Nature Group. He also studied John James Audubon.
DeVere found that although Audubon’s thirst for art and adventure may have been unparallelled, Audubon was constantly beset with the arduous challenge of earning a living. During Audubon’s working life in the first half of the 1800’s, bank failures and other economic crises complicated the task. Some of Audubon’s business decisions have in turn complicated our world today.
One of John James Audubon’s earliest jobs was with the Cincinnati natural history museum. In a circle of life, DeVere will sketch out the rest of the story of America’s most renowned naturalist.

Waterfowl and Early Spring Migration - Brookville Lake Region
2024-03-17 07:30 - 16:00 | OH
Theme: Waterfowl & Early Spring Migration
Location: Brookville Lake Region
Date: Sunday, March 17, 2024
Meet: 7:30 A.M. at the Park & Ride at I-275 Exit # 7 (see directions below)
Leaders: Jack Stenger, (513) 503-3389, jackstenger@gmail.com
Jay Stenger, (513) 910-2087, jaystenger1@gmail.com

The focus of this trip will be the spring waterfowl migration, which should be near peak at this date. Our trip leaders, Jack Stenger and Jay Stenger, plan to visit several spots around the Brookville Lake Region. If time permits we might make the short hop over to Hueston Woods to take a quick look around Acton Lake before returning home.
Jack, and his father Jay, are exceptionally skilled birders and have high expectations for this trip. Jay and Jack know the Brookville Lake region extremely well, having birded there many, many times over the past 30 plus years.
Both, the Brookville Lake Region & Hueston Woods, are birding 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 of species along the way. Finding many species of Anatidae (ducks, geese, and swans) is quite possible. We also expect to find numbers of gulls, grebes, Sandhill Cranes, Bald Eagles and other raptors, and songbirds, including early spring migrants and lingering winter visitors. Finding something rare is always a strong possibility on this trip. Past ASO March field trips to Brookville Lake have yielded Prairie Falcon, Golden Eagle, Lesser Black-backed Gulls, several rare waterfowl, and Lapland Longspurs just to name a few.
Because Brookville Lake is so large, this field trip will be an auto-tour type, which will consist of driving from spot to spot interspersed with a few short easy walks. While the trip duration is long and does entail considerable driving, the rewards, in terms of what we see, always make it worth the effort.
The trip will run into mid to late afternoon, 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 and we will make several stops during the day. One important note; a few of our scheduled stops will be on Indiana Park property. Indiana State Parks charges a daily per car entrance fee ($7 resident, $9 non-resident) that is good for any park property that day. That said, at this time of year there are usually no attendants on duty, but we cannot be sure of that. Ohio State Parks are free so there is no charge at Houston Woods.
We will meet at 7:30 a.m. at the park & ride lot, located on SR 128 right at the I-275 Exit # 7. I believe this exit is 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. Call or email Jay or Jack if you have any questions.

Visit the Brookville Lake website at:
http://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2961.htm
Visit the Whitewater Memorial State Park (at Brookville Lake) website at:
http://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2962.htm

(Contributed by Jay Stenger)

Amphibian Walk - East Fork State Park
2024-03-15 20:30 - 22:00 | OH
Nocturnal Amphibian Walk
Location: East Fork State Park, (north side of lake)
Date: Friday, March 15th, 2024
Meet: 8:30 P.M. at the East Fork State Park Campground Parking Lot (see the directions below).
Leader: Bill Stanley, (513) 324-2796, tyrannus58@gmail.com

*Note that this is an evening (after dark) field trip.
The focus of this “special” field trip is intended to specifically find salamanders, frogs and toads (amphibians).
In our region of the country, on damp rainy nights during early March, salamanders and various frog species migrate to vernal pools to breed. These amphibian species are compelled to migrate by temperature and moisture. For the mole salamanders it is the only time of year that you will find them because they spend the rest of the year underground
It is difficult to schedule salamander field trips because they only “migrate” on rainy nights and it is obviously impossible to predict rain months, or even weeks, in advance. Hence the short notice for this trip.
Rain is predicted for Friday night, so it should be ideal to observe some of these creatures on the move. If it doesn’t rain, we can visit the vernal pools and look for eggs, salamanders and frogs in the pools.
Some expected species we may find include spotted, Jefferson’s, southern two-lined and stream-side salamanders, green frog, northern spring peeper, western chorus frog, wood frog and American toad. Other things could show up as well.
Our leader for this trip is Bill Stanley. Bill is the Conservation Chair for the Greater Cincinnati Herpetological Society, so we are in good hands for this trip. Bill is also on the board of our Audubon Society. Many of you will be familiar with Bill, an exceptional birder and naturalist, who has led many field trips over the years.
Be forewarned that this is a robust trip which will entail quite a bit of walking. If the gate is closed on the park road expect a 3 mile round trip walk. It will also be dark, rainy and probably cold. While much of the walking will be along paved roads, there will also be considerable walking along muddy trails. So dress accordingly and wear appropriate footwear. Also bring flashlights so you can were you’re going and to better see the amphibians we come across. This will be about a 2 hour trip and will break up around 10:30 PM. If you have any questions feel free to contact Bill.
Meeting Location:
Use the following Google link to see the exact meeting location in East Fork State Park.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/GVHmwXokoA6VScRU9
Directions:
To get to the north entrance of East Fork State Park from I-275 take the SR 32 exit #63 (Newtown/Batavia/Eastgate Mall) and go east on SR 32 for about 10.8 miles to Half Acre Road. Turn right onto Half Acre Road and follow it for .8 miles to the T intersection with Old SR 32. Turn left onto Old SR 32 and go .2 mile to the East Fork State Park entrance. Turn right into East Fork SP (Park Road No. 4) and follow Park Road No. 4 for .4 mile to the Campground Road (watch for signs). Turn left onto the Campground Road and go .4 mile to our meeting spot in the Campgrounds Parking Lot.
(Contributed by Jay Stenger)

Late Winter/Early Spring Nature Walk - Spring Grove Cemetery
2024-02-25 09:00 - 12:00 | OH
Theme: Late Winter/Early Spring Nature Walk
Location: Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum
Date: Sunday, February 25, 2024
Meet: 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).
Leader: Denis Conover, (513) 390-0863, conovedg@hotmail.com
Spring 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.
The 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.
Denis’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.
Directions: 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.
Spring Grove Cemetery website:
https://www.springgrove.org/locations/spring-grove-cemetery-arboretum/#hrs
Spring Grove Cemetery Map:
https://assets.takeshape.io/af54a46e-9d1d-4a13-84ea-ea820654ba30/dev/66f7f564-13e7-4da3-9599-d5fc44c9d764/Spring%20Grove%20Cemetery%20and%20Arboretum%20Map.pdf

(Contributed by Jay Stenger)

Early Spring Migration - East Fork
2024-02-17 08:00 - 12:00 | OH
Early Spring Migration (especially waterfowl)
Location: East Fork State Park
Date: Saturday, February 17th, 2024
Meet: 8:00 A.M. at the East Fork State Parks south Swimming Beach parking lot, nearest the Pavilion (see the directions below).
Leader: Bill Stanley, (513) 324-2796, tyrannus58@gmail.com

The 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.
Since 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.
While 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.
Directions:
We 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.
Visit the East Fork State Park website for a Park map and other info at:
https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/east-fork-state-park

(Contributed by Jay Stenger)

February Program - Brian Patteson on Seabirding
2024-02-07 19:00 - 20:30 | OH
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.
To join the Zoom program, please follow this link:
Topic: February Meeting – Brian Patteson
Time: Feb 7, 2024 07:00 PM Eastern Time
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/99245429802
Meeting ID: 992 4542 9802
Our 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.
Several of us on the Audubon Board have taken these cruises – it is a great birding experience!
Brian 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.

Winter Nature Walk at Spring Grove Cemetery
2024-01-28 10:00 - 12:00 | OH
Theme: Winter Nature Walk
Location: Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum
Date: Sunday, January 28, 2024
Meet: 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).
Leader: Denis Conover, (513) 390-0863, conovedg@hotmail.com
Spring 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.
The 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.
Denis’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.
Directions: 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.
Spring Grove Cemetery website:
https://www.springgrove.org/locations/spring-grove-cemetery-arboretum/#hrs

Winter Bird Walk at Winton Woods
2024-01-20 08:30 - 12:00 | OH
Theme: Winter Bird Walk
Location: Winton Woods (Great Parks of Hamilton County)
Date: Saturday, January 20, 2024
Meet: At 8:30 AM in the Winton Woods Camp Ground Parking Lot. See directions below.
Leader: Luke Thies, (937) 733-9325, thiesluke997@gmail.com

The 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.
Red 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”.
This 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
Everyone 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.
While 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
Our 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.
This 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.
A 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.
Directions: 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.
The Winton Woods website link follows:
https://www.greatparks.org/parks/winton-woods

(Contributed by Jay Stenger)

January Zoom Meeting - Brian Wulker on eBird
2024-01-17 19:00 - 21:00 | OH
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:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/95402963837?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 954 0296 3837
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Our 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.
Brian 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.

Cincinnati Wild Ones - Tree ID Walk at Spring Grove
2023-12-03 10:30 - 12:00 | OH
Tree ID Walk at Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum
Sponsored by Greater Cincinnati Wild Ones Chapter
Sunday, December 3rd, 2023
10:30 am to 12:00 pm
4521 Spring Grove Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45232

Free, Public welcome, Nature walk/hike, Chapter Social
Public restrooms, drinking fountains

The focus of this field trip, lead by Dr. Denis Conover, will be the diverse botanical community found at Spring Grove Cemetery.
Come 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.
Participants 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.
Dress for the weather, consider layering lightweight clothing.
To RSVP or if you have any questions, contact us at cincinnatiwildones@gmail.com.

Waterfowl and Late Fall Migrants at Brookville Lake Area
2023-11-26 07:30 - 14:00 | OH
Brookville Lake Area
Waterfowl & Late Fall Migrants
Date: Sunday, November 26, 2023
Co-Leader: Jack Stenger, (513) 503-3389, jackstenger@gmail.com
Co-Leader: Jay Stenger, (513) 522-8147, jaystenger1@gmail.com
Meet: 7:30 a.m. at the Park & Ride Lot at I-275 Exit # 7. See directions below.

The 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.
Our 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.
The 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.
Directions:
We 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.
If you have any questions about this trip feel free to contact Jay or Jack at their contacts listed above.

For a map and other info visit the Brookville Lake website at:
http://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2961.htm
Visit the Whitewater Memorial State Park (at Brookville Lake) website at:
http://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2962.htm
Visit the Hueston Woods SP website at:
https://ohiodnr.gov/wps/portal/gov/odnr/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/hueston-woods-state-park

(Contributed by Jay Stenger)

Late Fall Bird and General Nature Walk at Armleder
2023-11-19 08:00 - 12:00 | OH
Theme: Late Fall Bird and General Nature Walk
Location: Otto Armleder Memorial Park
Date: Sunday, November 19, 2023
Meet: At 8:00 AM at the Main Pavilion Parking Lot at Armleder Park (See directions below)
Leader: Luke Thies, (937) 733-9325, thiesluke997@gmail.com

Armleder 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.
Our 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.
Virtually 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.
If you have any questions about this trip feel free to contact Luke at his contacts listed above.
Directions:
Otto 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.

Otto Armleder Website (Includes Google Directions & Park Map)
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks/visit-a-park/find-a-parkfacility/otto-armleder-memorial-park/
https://www.greatparks.org/parks/otto-armleder-memorial-park/otto-armleder-memorial-park-trails

(Contributed by Jay Stenger)

November Audubon Program - UC's Avian Mortalities Project
2023-11-15 19:00 - 21:00 | OH
Title: UC’s Avian Mortalities Project
Host: Professor Ron Canterbury
Associate Academic Director
UC Department of Biological Sciences

Wednesday, November 15, 7:00 to 9:00 pm
Sharon Woods Park Visitors Center

Dr. 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.

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.

Specific 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.

We’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.

Contact Rick Marra with any questions, at rickpmarra@aol.com.

Wild Ones Winter Chapter Meeting
2023-11-08 18:00 - 19:30 | OH
Tom Borgman, presenting How to Design, Plant and Maintain Your Native Landscape
Tom 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.
Meet 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.
Please RSVP to cincinnatiwildones@gmail.com
