17 Types Of Big Birds In Ohio (Photos + Fun Facts)

Ohio is home to an abundance of bird species, from majestic eagles and stealthy hawks to smaller varieties like chickadees. Ohio offers opportunities for viewing all these breathtaking birds of prey up close, so we will discuss some big ones we’ve encountered here in Ohio.

We will also explore 17 species of big birds found in Ohio, providing photos and interesting facts for each.

Role of Big Birds in the Ecosystem

Big birds play an integral role in our ecosystem by performing several essential functions. Scavenger birds help maintain an ideal balance within an ecosystem by clearing away dead animal carcasses while feeding on carrion from dead animals, helping prevent diseases from spreading while maintaining an overall healthy balance within it.

In addition, big birds protect plant communities by controlling pests that could damage them further – this ensures healthy plants remain flourishing while protecting biodiversity overall.

Big birds play an essential role in pollination, helping ensure the reproduction of many plant species, seed dispersal, and regeneration of forests and other habitats, and providing nutrients through droppings to enrich the soil and promote plant growth – thus maintaining biodiversity and ecological equilibrium in their respective environments.

Migratory Patterns of Big Birds

Eagles, cranes and storks all exhibit striking migration patterns that delight bird enthusiasts worldwide. Many populations follow a specific route known as a flyway to migrate long distances each year – the most prevalent pattern involves flying north in spring to breed in temperate or Arctic regions during summer breeding months; then returning south later that autumn for wintering grounds further south.

Large birds migrate across great distances every year, facing numerous challenges that include weather change, potential predators, and human interference. Analyzing their migration patterns not only offers us insight into their behavior but also highlights conservation efforts needed to protect their habitats and facilitate their journeys.

Witnessing big birds take off on their migration journey is truly breathtaking experience that reminds us all to cherish nature’s splendor.

Discover the Fascinating World of Big Birds in Ohio

What are the different types of Big birds found in Ohio?

There are 17 different types of Big birds found in Ohio?

• Mute Swan
• Trumpeter Swan
•  Wild Turkey
•  American White Pelican
• Canada Goose
• Whooping Crane
• Bald Eagle
• Golden Eagle
• Sandhill Crane
• Brown Pelican
• Great Cormorant
• Great Blue Heron
•  Snowy Owl
•  Wood Stork
• Great Horned Owl
• Black Vulture
• Rough-legged Hawk

Mute Swan

Mute Swans are elegant and graceful birds that can be found throughout Ohio year-round. Although initially brought over as ornamental lake-water enhancement measures, they have since spread into the wild, where breeding populations have established themselves.

These giant and heavy-flying birds make for an impressive sight for bird watchers in Georgia, appearing on up to two percent of summer and winter checklists submitted by bird enthusiasts.

Mute Swans are beloved birds known for their snowy white plumage and long, graceful neck. You can quickly identify one by its orange bill featuring an impressive black knob. Adult Mute Swans resemble each other, with males being slightly larger than females.

Mute Swans can often be found in city parks, protected bays, and lakes, as well as shallow wetlands, rivers, and estuaries. They typically find shelter near water bodies such as rivers or estuaries where there is shallow vegetation; their primary food source consists of aquatic plants and algae.

Mute Swans are beloved creatures for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike, drawing admiring glances wherever they travel across bodies of water.

Mute Swans can be beautiful creatures yet can pose serious threats to native wildlife and habitats. Their aggressive behavior towards other animals is well known, and they can cause irreparable damage to ecosystems. Therefore, maintaining an appropriate distance from these majestic birds is crucial to ensure both human and wildlife safety.

Adult swans are fiercely protective of their young and will react aggressively if they sense danger or threats against them. Hissing warns off predators; should this warning go ignored, adult swans will pursue and attack to defend them.

Category	Information
Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Anseriformes
Family	Anatidae
Genus	Cygnus
Scientific Name	Cygnus atratus
Swan Conservation Status	Near Threatened
Swan Locations	Africa
	Asia
	Central America
	Eurasia
	Europe
	North America
	Oceania
	South America

Trumpeter Swan

Trumpeter Swans are majestic creatures that are easy to spot all year in Ohio, featuring on 6% of summer checklists and 2% of winter checklists in Ohio.

The Trumpeter Swan holds the distinction of being North America’s longest and heaviest living bird as well as one of the heaviest flying birds worldwide.

These beautiful birds are famed for their large size and distinctive trumpet-like calls. You’ll recognize these stunning specimens by their pure white feathers, long necks and powerful wingspan – making them a sight to behold in their natural habitat.

Their heads and necks may occasionally exhibit some rust-brown coloring from contact with iron elements in wetland soils, giving their appearance an original touch. Juvenile Trumpeter Swans begin life dusky-gray with pink centers on their black bills before developing into their iconic white plumage over time.

Trumpeter Swans are often found nesting near shallow waters in marshes, lakes, and rivers with dense vegetation. When breeding in open areas near shallow waters they typically lay their eggs near shallow water surfaces near shallower depths. While feeding underwater with their long necks they mainly consume aquatic plants and vegetation as food sources. A symbol of grace and beauty among bird life.

Wild Turkey

Wild encompasses all that nature offers us, including the majestic Wild Turkey. These impressive birds can often be found roaming Ohio during all four seasons of the year – 2 percent of summer and winter checklists include sightings.

Wild Turkeys are the ancestors of our domesticated Thanksgiving dinners and represent the largest species within Galliformes. While their plump, spherical bodies may seem comical when preening and puffing up for preening displays, their impressive features cannot be discounted.

Adult male Wild Turkeys feature small, bald heads adorned with caruncles and hanging red wattles, as well as dark brown tails with rusty or chestnut tips that add to their regal appearance in the wild.

Wild Turkeys display an astonishing array of colors on their body feathers, from red and purple to purple-green, copper, bronze, and gold against a blackish or dark background. Adult female Wild Turkeys tend to be smaller and less colorful than males – typically sporting hues of brown or gray in their plumage.

Wild Turkeys can be found in mature, mixed forests populated with oaks and pines as well as open spaces such as pastures, fields, and orchards. Their agility and speed when moving through their environment make them fascinating species to watch in nature.

These majestic animals roam freely across forests, fields, and grasslands, showcasing their colorful feathers and unique calls. Wild Turkeys are omnivorous animals often seen scavenging for acorns, nuts, seeds, and fruits on the forest floor or scaling trees for food sources such as fruits.

Male Wild Turkeys exhibit elaborate courtship behaviors to attract females by donning colorful feathers on their heads and necks to draw females closer. They use colors such as red to attract potential mates.

Wild Turkeys are fascinating and engaging animals to observe in their natural environments, from wild terrain to backyard feeders.

Category	Information
Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Galliformes
Family	Phasianidae
Genus	Meleagris
Scientific Name	Meleagris gallopavo silvestris
Eastern Turkey (Wild Turkey) Locations	North America
	Eastern Turkey

Eastern Turkey (Wild Turkey) Facts

Category	Information
Prey	Acorns, nuts, seeds, berries, and insects
Main Prey	Nuts
Name Of Young	Poults
Group Behavior	Social
Fun Fact	You can hear their gobbles up to a mile away!
Estimated Population Size	Unknown
Biggest Threat	Hunting, climate change, and urbanization
Most Distinctive Feature	Red, featherless heads and iridescent coloring
Distinctive Feature	Fleshy flap on bill called a snood
Wingspan	4.1 to 4.9 feet
Incubation Period	28 days
Age Of Independence	4 months
Age Of Fledgling	12 to 24 hours
Habitat	Pastures, fields, and orchards
Predators	Racoons, opossums, skunks, foxes, and snakes
Diet	Omnivore
Lifestyle	Diurnal
Type	Bird
Common Name	Eastern turkey or wild turkey
Number Of Species	6
Location	North America
Nesting Location	Shallow depression by woody vegetation

Eastern Turkey (Wild Turkey) Physical Characteristics

Category	Information
Color	Black, Grey-Brown
Skin Type	Feathers
Lifespan	7 years
Weight	5.5 to 24 pounds
Length	30 to 49 inches
Age of Sexual Maturity	7 months to 2 years

American White Pelican

The American White Pelican is a magnificent bird, often found during migration periods in Ohio. Their impressive wingspan and graceful flight capabilities make for an amazing sight, often appearing on up to 3% of checklists during spring migration – a testament to their significance within their region.

Non-breeding adults of the American Pelican species are easily distinguished from one another by their all-white plumage with prominent black flight feathers visible when flying. Their allure makes them popular choices among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike, who appreciate them as part of Ohio’s wildlife.

Keep an eye out for these stunning animals during their migration periods from April to May and September to October.

These stunning creatures inhabit remote lakes in North America before migrating south for winter migrations along the southern Pacific Coast of the US, Gulf of Mexico, Mexico, and Central America. Along their journey, they may also pass through western and central US states during migration.

American White Pelicans can typically be found in shallow freshwater lakes, wetlands and along lake and river edges. In winter months, they tend to gather at coastal bays, inlets, estuaries, and estuaries, where they forage for food in shallow waters before resting on sandbars for restorative rest and nourishment.

These magnificent birds are truly remarkable to watch with their wide wingspan and distinct yellow bills, boasting up to three gallons of water capacity in their bill! The American White Pelican is an enormous water bird known for its powerful bill, which can hold as much as three gallons at one time!

This bird of prey takes to the waters around North America to fish for sustenance, tilting its bill downward to drain excess water before swallowing its catch. Recognizable by its snowy white plumage, the American White Pelican makes for an imposing sight along our waterways.

Category	Information
Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Pelecaniformes
Family	Pelecanidae
Genus	Pelecanus

Pelican Facts

Category	Information
Main Prey	Fish, Crabs, Turtles
Fun Fact	Can have a wingspan of up to 3 meters!
Distinctive Feature	Pouch hanging from underside of beak and keen eyesight
Wingspan	183cm – 350cm (72in – 138in)
Habitat	Arid islands and coastal waters
Predators	Human, Cat, Coyote
Diet	Omnivore
Lifestyle	Flock
Favorite Food	Fish
Type	Bird
Average Clutch Size	6
Slogan	Can have a wingspan of up to 3 meters!
Nesting Location	Ground or tree, depending on the species

Pelican Physical Characteristics

Category	Information
Color	Grey, Black, White
Skin Type	Feathers
Top Speed	40 mph
Lifespan	16 – 23 years
Weight	2.7kg – 15kg (6lbs – 33lbs)
Height	106cm – 183cm (42in – 72in)

Canada Goose

Canada Geese are large geese that are frequently found throughout Ohio throughout the year, easily identifiable by their black heads, white chin straps, and loud honking calls. Their bodies tend to be predominantly brown with either tan or pale chest and white rump colors depending on subspecies; their honking calls can sometimes differ among them as well.

Canada Geese are large waterfowl that boast long necks and black legs with webbed feet and are frequently found on Ohio bird checklists during both summer and winter seasons. A common sight across Ohio skies and bodies of water, they add to its rich variety of wildlife that can be observed.

Canada Geese are iconic waterfowl, known for their characteristic black head and neck with white “chinstrap.” Native to Canada but now found throughout North America and western Europe.

Canada Geese are birds that breed in Canada before migrating southward for wintering in southern US states. Those located in northern US states tend to remain year-round without migrating south.

Geese can often be seen near bodies of water such as lakes and rivers, where they feed on aquatic insects such as shrimp while also enjoying land-based meals such as grasses.

Canada Geese are widely distributed, making them a familiar sight across a variety of habitats – be they urban areas or rural landscapes. Canada Geese are often seen symbolizing North America’s natural beauty, whether in urban parks or remote tundra. Their adaptability means that Canada Geese are easily found throughout their range, representing natural beauty everywhere they inhabit.

As they travel long distances between their breeding and wintering grounds, migratory birds are well-known for their annual migrations. Adults molt during the breeding season, losing their flight feathers for up to 40 days at a time until regaining them later on in life.

Whooping Crane

Whooping Cranes are rare and endangered birds found only occasionally around Ohio’s Fairborn Marsh area in 2021, though sightings do occur occasionally. These majestic birds are known for their graceful courtship dances and trumpeting calls that add charm to their presence.

Once threatened with extinction, efforts to protect and conserve this species have led to its population skyrocketing to approximately 600 individuals from just 20 in the 1940s.

Whooping Cranes have an iconic appearance, featuring all-white bodies with red crowns and black facial masks, as well as black feathers only visible during flight on their massive 7-foot wingspan.

Whooping Cranes have become an iconic symbol of conservation success and provide an important reminder about protecting vulnerable wildlife species. Witnessing one in its natural environment is truly amazing; witnessing these magnificent birds only adds to its beauty and resilience!

Whooping Cranes breed in Canada’s shallow wetlands and migrate for wintering to marshes and tidal areas in Texas; additionally, reintroduced populations also nest in Wisconsin before making their journey south towards Florida.
Their graceful movements and elaborate courtship display include dancing, jumping, and calling.

Whooping Cranes can be seen foraging for food both on land and water, including plants, berries, seeds, and aquatic creatures such as frogs, snakes, insects, mollusks, and crustaceans. Conservation efforts have been implemented in order to ensure their continued existence in future generations.

The Bald Eagle is an impressive bird of prey that can be found year-round in Ohio, appearing on 13% of summer checklists and 10% of winter checklists. Recognizable by its striking white head, yellow eyes, large hooked bill, chocolate brown body with yellow legs, and impressive talons, easily seen year-round on Ohio checklists!

Both male and female Bald Eagles share similar appearances; however, females are usually larger by 25%. Juveniles feature dark brown heads and bodies with various degrees of mottling or streaking until reaching adulthood at approximately five years old. Keep an eye out for these majestic and powerful birds flying overhead; they symbolize strength and freedom within the natural world.

Bald Eagles breed in Canada before migrating south for winter in the US; some remain resident all year-round in coastal regions.

You’re most likely to spot the Bald Eagle during its breeding season in wetland environments such as open or large bodies of water with plenty of fish – these locations make great homes for this iconic bird.

Bald Eagles are opportunistic feeders and will eat whatever is available – with their preferred food being fish like trout and salmon; however, they also eat birds and mammals.
These majestic birds of prey soar through the skies with remarkable agility and grace, showing off their hunting abilities with powerful beaks and talons. Keep an eye out for these iconic birds in nature to appreciate their beauty and resilience!

Category	Information
Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Falconiformes
Family	Accipitridae
Eagle Conservation Status	Near Threatened
Eagle Locations	Africa
	Asia
	Central America
	Eurasia
	Europe
	North America
	South America

Eagle Facts

Category	Information
Main Prey	Fish, Mammals, Reptiles
Fun Fact	Has exceptional eyesight!
Distinctive Feature	Long curved beak and strong, sharp claws
Wingspan	70cm – 250cm (27.5in – 98in)
Habitat	Open waters like rivers, lakes and coastal regions
Predators	Human, Hawk, Raccoon
Diet	Carnivore
Lifestyle	Solitary
Favorite Food	Fish
Type	Bird
Average Clutch Size	2
Slogan	Has exceptional eyesight!
Nesting Location	In trees or on cliffs

Eagle Physical Characteristics

Category	Information
Color	Brown, Grey, Yellow, Black, White
Skin Type	Feathers
Top Speed	100 mph
Lifespan	15 – 30 years
Weight	0.5kg – 7kg (1.1lbs – 15.4lbs)
Height	40cm – 100cm (15.7in – 39.3in)

Golden Eagle

The Golden Eagle is an impressive bird of prey rarely sighted in Ohio; however, sightings have been reported between September and May as it is one of the world’s most widely distributed eagle species known for its striking features.

Golden-brown crown and nape, dark brown bodies, and pale flight feathers combine for an eye-catching display when illuminated correctly. Their eyes range from pale yellow to deep brown hues and feature an arresting yellow ring around each pupil.

Golden Eagles are formidable hunters that feed on mammals such as rabbits and squirrels; keep your eye out for these magnificent birds as they soar across Ohio skies during winter months!

Golden Eagles that breed in Canada and Alaska migrate south for wintering purposes into the United States and northern Mexico; those found year-round in western US states remain. Golden Eagles can often be found perched atop trees above treelines in mountainous environments high above treelines as well as canyons, riverside cliffs, or bluffs for nesting purposes.

Golden Eagles have become notoriously reclusive of human presence. As skilled predators, these birds feed on small to medium-sized mammals such as rabbits, prairie dogs, and hares – with its impressive wingspan and sharp talons, the Golden Eagle is truly an emblem of strength and grace in the bird world.

Category	Information
Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Accipitriformes
Family	Accipitridae
Genus	Aquila
Scientific Name	Aquila chrysaetos
Golden Eagle Locations	Africa
	Asia
	Eurasia
	Europe
	North America

Golden Eagle Facts

Category	Information
Prey	Rabbits, hares, squirrels, prairie dogs, fish, cranes, swans, badgers, and carrion (dead animals)
Name Of Young	Eaglets
Group Behavior	Mainly solitary
Fun Fact	Their calls sound like high-pitched screams, but they are quiet most of the time
Estimated Population Size	85,000 to 160,000
Biggest Threat	Climate change, power lines, and pollution
Most Distinctive Feature	Long, broad wings
Distinctive Feature	Small heads, long tails
Wingspan	7 feet
Incubation Period	41 to 45 days
Age Of Independence	60 to 70 days
Habitat	Mountains, canyons, riverside cliffs
Predators	Coyotes, wolverines, and bears
Diet	Carnivore
Lifestyle	Diurnal
Type	Bird
Common Name	Golden eagle
Number Of Species	6
Location	North America, Africa, Europe, Asia
Average Clutch Size	2
Nesting Location	Cliff ledges or large trees
Migratory	1

Golden Eagle Physical Characteristics

Category	Information
Color	White, Gold, Dark Brown
Skin Type	Feathers
Top Speed	200 mph
Lifespan	20 to 30 years
Weight	105 to 216 ounces
Length	26 to 33 inches
Age of Sexual Maturity	4 years

Sandhill Crane

The Golden Eagle is an outstanding bird of prey renowned for its impressive size, agility, and hunting prowess. These magnificent birds can be found across various habitats; with some populations migrating south during wintertime while others remaining year-round in western US states.

Golden Eagles can frequently be seen soaring high above treelines or perching on cliffs near rivers and canyons where they nest, often seen by wildlife enthusiasts who find them an intriguing sighting. Due to their preference for staying away from human activity, these rare birds remain an uncommon sighting.

Golden Eagles are famed for their keen eyesight and powerful talons. These majestic birds of prey often feed on small to medium-sized mammals such as rabbits, prairie dogs, and hares; their hunting prowess has earned them revered status among bird watchers and nature enthusiasts alike. They make for captivating sight-watching experiences.

Sandhill Cranes are omnivores that feed on an assortment of seeds, grains, berries, and tubers when foraging on land. When foraging on water, they use their long bills to pluck plants out or probe through vegetation in search of amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals.

Birds such as these magnificent specimens are an absolute joy to observe in their natural environments, whether foraging for sustenance or performing elaborate mating dances.

Category	Information
Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Gruiformes
Family	Gruidae
Genus	Antigone
Scientific Name	A. canadensis
Sandhill Crane Locations	Central America
	Eurasia
	North America

Sandhill Crane Facts

Category	Information
Prey	Occasional small mammals
Name Of Young	Fledglings
Group Behavior	Family units
Flock
Biggest Threat	Habitat Loss, Predation
Wingspan	5’5″ to 7’7″
Incubation Period	30 days
Age Of Independence	10-12 months
Age Of Fledgling	30 days
Average Spawn Size	1-3
Habitat	Marshes and Bogs
Predators	Most predatory mammals
Diet	Herbivore
Lifestyle	Flock
Nesting Location	Marshes, shallow water

Sandhill Crane Physical Characteristics

Category	Information
Color	Brown, Grey, Fawn, Red
Lifespan	20 years or more
Weight	7.1-11 pounds
Height	3-4 ft
Age of Sexual Maturity	2 years
Venomous	No
Aggression	Low

Brown Pelican

The Brown Pelican is an eye-catching bird with easily distinguishable features that make it easily recognizable. While uncommon, occasional sightings of this species in Ohio have been recorded at Bath Nature Preserve since 2021.

Brown Pelicans can be identified by their large bills and throat pouches, and are distinguished by their brown bodies, white heads and necks with pale yellow foreheads, pale, long bills that are yellow-orange in hue, as well as long yellow bills with orange tips.

Brown Pelicans are birds with short black legs and webbed feet. Juveniles of this species typically feature brown heads, necks, backs, and wings as well as bluish-gray bills – although rare in Ohio, they’re worth keeping an eye out for in northern regions of the state.

Brown Pelicans can be found along the Pacific and Atlantic coasts of North America as well as south to northern South America, where breeding populations often show some differences from each other during breeding season.

Brown Pelicans vary from white to dark brown in their napes and throat pouches; those of Atlantic Brown Pelicans have olive-brown pouches, while Pacific Brown Pelicans possess red skin on their throat pouches. Breeding and migration occur annually, or they reside year-round along coastal habitats.

Brown Pelicans are incredible to observe in coastal environments due to their spectacular fish-catching dives into the water.

Brown Pelicans are known for their amazing foraging techniques. Dive-bombing from high altitudes into deep ocean waters to capture fish for food in their expandable throat pouches makes these birds truly impressive creatures.

As they resurface, pelicans drain water from their pouches before swallowing their catch whole – an extraordinary hunting and feeding strategy that sets them apart from other seabird species and makes them an unforgettable sight to observe in their natural habitat.

Great Cormorant

The Great Cormorant is an uncommon bird found only occasionally in Ohio and considered accidental there. Although rare, sightings have been reported near Wendy Park, Edgewater Marina, and Toledo in 2022. This stocky species can easily be identified by its blocky head, thick neck, and hooked bill.

Adult birds tend to be black with white throats and yellow skin around their bill, while breeding adults may also display white patches on their thighs and white neck feathers. On the other hand, juveniles usually exhibit brown feathers with white chests.

Keep an eye out for these distinctive Great Cormorants in their natural habitat if you happen to come across one. These birds can often be found near rocky coastlines, sheltered bays, estuaries, lakes, and rivers where their feeding grounds lie.

Great Cormorants are waterbirds that specialize in fish hunting. To capture these delicious morsels of sustenance, they dive underwater with sharp beaks to capture them from below the surface and capture with their sharp beaks. Their diving depth capabilities extend up to 6 meters, demonstrating impressive underwater agility.

The Great Cormorant has evolved with highly tuned hearing, likely helping it locate and catch fish at significant depths. Their adaptability and skill make them formidable hunters in aquatic habitats; with their sleek black plumage and unique fishing techniques, it is truly a fascinating species to observe in nature.

Great Blue Heron

The Great Blue Heron is an exquisite bird species frequently sighted in Ohio from April through October during their breeding season; however, some individuals can sometimes be observed year-round.

These majestic birds are the largest native herons in North America and boast impressive physical traits. Their large pale gray bodies often appear white when in flight, making them easily distinguishable in the sky.

Great Blue Herons are distinguished by their striking white faces topped with an elaborate black crest or plume that extends from their eyes back onto their heads, providing an unforgettable sight for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. Recorded on 32% of summer checklists in their locality and 8% of winter checklists, respectively, Great Blue Herons make for captivating sights when birding or hiking through nature areas.

Great Blue Herons can be seen throughout various wetland environments, such as fresh and saltwater marshes, mangrove swamps, lake edges, and coastlines. These striking birds can often be found exhibiting impressive displays of territorial defense, using dramatically outstretched wings with heads back to assert dominance over rival birds in the area.

Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike are drawn to the elegance and grace of the Great Blue Heron as it soars gracefully across the skyline and wades gracefully through waters, making it one of the most beloved sights in nature.

Category	Information
Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Pelecaniformes
Family	Ardeidae
Genus	Ardea
Scientific Name	Ardea herodias
Great Blue Heron Locations	Central America
	North America
	South America

Snowy Owl

Snowy Owls are stunning birds found throughout Ohio during winter months. This threatened species usually arrives around November, remaining until around January (with some individuals staying until as late as June).

Male Snowy Owls typically sport all-white feathers with scattered brown spots, while their female counterparts have dark brown or black dots on their backs, wings, flanks, and tails that bear more heavily compared to males.

Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike can experience something truly remarkable when viewing these captivating Arctic animals in their snowy habitat. You’ll find these magical beings across Canada’s northern regions – as well as other arctic regions worldwide!

Snowy Owls migrate between southern Canada and northern US states during the breeding season in search of food, often being seen perching in an open Arctic tundra environment on perches such as hummocks, ridges, knolls, and bluffs for optimal viewing of their surroundings.

Snowy Owls are not only visually captivating, but their behavior and habitat preferences are equally fascinating.

Category	Information
Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Strigiformes
Family	Strigidae
Genus	Bubo
Scientific Name	Bubo scandiacus
Snowy Owl Conservation Status	Vulnerable
Snowy Owl Locations	Eurasia
	Europe
	North America
	Ocean

Snowy Owl Facts

Category	Information
Main Prey	Lemmings, Voles, Fish
Fun Fact	One of the largest owl species in the world!
Distinctive Feature	Black and white markings and large head
Wingspan	130cm – 164cm (51in – 65in)
Habitat	Woodland within the Arctic tundra
Predators	Human, Foxes, Wild dogs
Diet	Carnivore
Lifestyle	Solitary
Favorite Food	Lemmings
Type	Bird
Average Clutch Size	7
Slogan	One of the largest owl species in the world!

Snowy Owl Physical Characteristics

Category	Information
Color	Grey, Black, White
Skin Type	Feathers
Top Speed	50 mph
Lifespan	10 – 17 years
Weight	1.1kg – 2kg (2.4lbs – 4.4lbs)
Height	60cm – 75cm (24in – 30in)

 Wood Stork

The Wood Stork is an impressive bird known for its large size and unique appearance. Belonging to the Ciconiidae family, Wood Storks are one of few North American species known to breed naturally in the wild. Wading birds of this species feature white bodies with black flight feathers and long, curved bills with dark legs and feet for breeding purposes.

Wood Storks can be found throughout North America; however, in states like Ohio where they are considered accidental species. Wood Storks usually make appearances between June and September.

These magnificent birds are an astounding display of biodiversity in their environment and a testament to their vibrancy. You can spot these graceful birds year-round along the Gulf Coast and, southern Atlantic Coast, Central and South America as well.

Wood Storks prefer open forested wetlands with abundant Taxodium trees near water for their preferred habitat. When breeding season comes around, Wood Storks search out shallow waters (four to 12 inches deep) where they can forage for food.

Wood Storks are captivating birds to observe as they elegantly glide through the water, using their bills to capture fish, amphibians, or any other aquatic creatures they come across. Not only are Wood Storks an integral part of their ecosystems, but their beauty makes them a delight for both birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

Category	Information
Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Ciconiiformes
Family	Ciconiidae
Stork Locations	Africa
	Asia
	Central America
	Eurasia
	Europe
	North America
	Oceania
	South America

Stork Facts

Category	Information
Prey	Insects, amphibians, small mammals, bird eggs, fish, crustaceans
Fun Fact	They can’t sing like other birds
Estimated Population Size	700,000+
Biggest Threat	Agricultural changes and industrialization by humans
Most Distinctive Feature	Long legs, long neck, and long bill
Wingspan	Up to 10.5+ feet
Incubation Period	33-34 days
Litter Size	1-7 eggs
Habitat	Open grasslands, light woodlands, marshes, wet meadows, rivers, ponds
Predators	American alligators, though eggs are attacked by small mammals
Diet	Carnivore
Type	Bird
Common Name	Stork
Number Of Species	19
Location	Australia, North America, Africa, Europe, Asia, South America
Average Clutch Size	1
Nesting Location	Cliff sides, trees, and on tops of homes
Age of Molting	11 months
Migratory	1

Stork Physical Characteristics

Category	Information
Color	Red, Black, White
Skin Type	Feathers
Top Speed	16 mph
Lifespan	22 years in the wild, 35 years in captivity
Weight	6.2 to 7.3 lbs.
Height	39-49 inches
Length	39-45 inches

Great Horned Owl

Great Horned Owls are majestic animals found throughout Ohio year-round. One of the most commonly seen species in North America, they can be spotted on about one in every five summer and winter checklists.

Their most distinctive characteristic is their “Great Horns,” or ear tufts used for camouflage against tree branches. Furthermore, the coloring and patterns on their feathers also play a crucial role in blending in seamlessly with their natural environment.

Great Horned Owls are skilled hunters who prey upon rodents, birds, and even other owls for food. With their piercing yellow eyes and haunting hoots, these magnificent animals represent both the beauty and mystery of the animal kingdom.

Great Horned Owls are majestic animals that can thrive in various environments as long as they have the necessary resources. Well-known for their varied diet, Great Horned Owls prey upon small rodents, birds, insects, and even fish and carrion.

Hunters employ a technique involving perching in a strategic location, scanning their surroundings, and quickly diving down toward their prey with powerful talons armed with razor-sharp needles to catch it.

 

These birds are not only skilled hunters but also efficient protectors of their territory, using their powerful beaks and sharp talons to deter potential threats. Overall, Great Horned Owls represent elegance as well as power – making them fascinating species to observe in nature.

Black Vulture

Coragyps atratus (Black Vulture), Ohio’s striking bird of prey found throughout the year, is commonly observed despite being relatively rare, having been recorded on one percent of summer and winter checklists, respectively. Black Vultures are easily identified by their dark black plumage – making them unique among all vulture species.

Black Vultures have an iconic look. Their gray featherless heads and necks resemble wrinkled skin, adding further character. In flight, their silvery patches create the impression that their wings have fingers!

Black Vultures play an integral part in maintaining an eco-system by feeding on carrion and keeping our environment cleaner. Keep an eye out for these majestic birds soaring overhead or perching in trees as they fulfill their crucial ecological function.

Black Vultures can often be seen roosting in wooded areas near water sources in forested landscapes. Their diet mainly consists of feeding on carrion and decayed animals. However, capable of finding dead animals on their own, Black Vultures often rely on other scavenger birds to lead them towards food sources.

These iconic birds of prey, famed for their graceful flight and keen vision, play an invaluable role in maintaining ecological equilibrium by cleaning up carcasses and waste in their habitat. One of the world’s iconic species, Black Vultures, are fascinating creatures to observe in their natural environment.

Category	Information
Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Cathartiformes
Family	Cathartidae
Genus	Cathartes
Scientific Name	Cathartes aura
Vulture Conservation Status	Endangered
Vulture Locations	Africa
	Asia
	Central America
	Eurasia
	Europe
	North America
	South America

Vulture Facts

Category	Information
Main Prey	Rats, Small and large animal carcasses
Distinctive Feature	Large wings and sharp, curved beak
Wingspan	130cm – 183cm (51in – 72in)
Habitat	Deserts, savannah and grassland near water
Predators	Hawks, Snakes, Wild cats
Diet	Carnivore
Lifestyle	Solitary
Favorite Food	Rats
Type	Bird
Average Clutch Size	2
Slogan	There are 30 different species worldwide!

Vulture Physical Characteristics

Category	Information
Color	Brown, Grey, Black, White, Tan
Skin Type	Feathers
Top Speed	30 mph
Lifespan	20 – 30 years
Weight	0.85kg – 2.2kg (1.9lbs – 5lbs)
Height	64cm – 81cm (25in – 32in)

Rough-legged Hawk

Rough-legged Hawks, winter bird species native to Ohio, can be observed from mid-September through May; bird watchers submit checklists showing these sightings 1% of the time during this timeframe.

Rough-legged Hawks are magnificent birds renowned for their feathered legs, which lend them their name and provide insulation against the cold environments in which they reside. Rough-legged Hawks can grow to between the size of a crow and goose.

These stunning birds of prey come in dark-brown variations with dark patches on their wings, tails, and bellies, offering a striking sight in Ohio’s winter skies and adding an exotic element of wild beauty to the landscape.

These birds of prey nest in Alaska and northern Canada before migrating southward for winter months in the US. Commonly found perching atop poles or hovering over marshes or open fields, Rough-legged Hawks possess keen eyesight to spot prey quickly.

Lemmings and voles provide their primary sources of sustenance for these hawks; small mammals like voles, mice, and ground squirrels also serve as sustenance during winter months in states like West Virginia. With their impressive hunting skills and striking plumage patterns, Rough-legged Hawks make fascinating species to observe in their natural environment.

Category	Information
Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Accipitriformes
Family	Accipitridae
Genus	Buteo
Scientific Name	Buteo lagopus
Rough-Legged Hawk Locations	Asia
	Eurasia
	Europe
	North America

Rough-Legged Hawk (Rough-Legged Buzzard) Facts

Category	Information
Prey	Small rodents and passerine birds
Main Prey	Lemmings, voles
Name Of Young	Eyas
Group Behavior	Mainly solitary
Fun Fact	Its scientific name, lagopus, is Ancient Greek for “hare” and “foot,” referring to its feathered feet and toes
Estimated Population Size	350,000 to 800,000
Biggest Threat	Collisions, accidental capture from bear traps, pesticides
Most Distinctive Feature	Bold patterns, M-shaped wings
Distinctive Feature	Feathered legs and feet
Wingspan	47 to 60 inches
Incubation Period	31 days
Age Of Independence	8 to 10 weeks
Age Of Fledgling	4 to 6 weeks
Habitat	Arctic tundra and coasts, open grasslands
Predators	Birds of prey, Arctic foxes, brown bears, wolverines, skuas
Diet	Carnivore
Lifestyle	Diurnal
Favorite Food	Small rodents
Type	Bird
Common Name	Rough-legged hawk
Special Features	Small talons
Number Of Species	2
Location	North America, Europe, Asia
Nesting Location	Exposed cliffsides, high trees, buildings
Migratory	1

Rough-Legged Hawk (Rough-Legged Buzzard) Physical Characteristics

Category	Information
Color	White, Dark Brown
Skin Type	Feathers
Lifespan	7.5 years
Weight	1.32 to 3.66 pounds
Length	18 to 24 inches
Age of Sexual Maturity	Two years

FAQ

Where can these big birds be seen in Ohio?

Bird feeders provide easy food sources, attracting large birds that often visit for quick snacks.

Large birds such as bald eagles and herons are commonly seen near bodies of water, drawing to these spots due to an abundance of food sources like fish and amphibians in these bodies of water.

Some big birds, like bald eagles, tend to favor large bodies of water like lakes and rivers as prime hunting grounds where fish predation opportunities exist. These areas provide ample hunting opportunities and make excellent spots for viewing these majestic creatures.

Do these big birds migrate to southern regions?

Hawks are well-known for their long migrations south, often traveling thousands of miles during winter months. Ohio serves as an essential stopover point on their journey south for wintering grounds.

Witnessing the annual migration of hawks is truly astounding, with thousands of birds flying north in search of warmer climates. No matter your interest or enjoyment level, witnessing these big birds as they head south is truly mesmerizing and can provide a truly awe-inspiring experience.

Are there raptors in Ohio?

Ohioans may have observed the presence of raptors. Thanks to conservation efforts here and nationwide, they have enjoyed an increase in numbers over recent decades. Spotting one soaring serenely high above us increases our appreciation of nature; Ohio boasts an array of species to observe!

Ohio is home to an array of raptors, such as hawks, eagles, falcons and owls – these birds of prey play an integral part in maintaining balanced ecosystems by controlling populations of rodents and small animals such as bats.

Ohio offers birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts an incredible opportunity to witness majestic bald eagles and agile peregrine falcons in their natural environments. Take a stroll through its forests or open fields, keeping an eye out for these predators soaring through the skies!

What is Ohio capital bird?

Ohio General Assembly designated the northern cardinal (Cardinis cardinals) as their state bird in 1933. Its vibrant red plumage and distinctive crest make it an enduring symbol of Ohio’s natural beauty and wildlife.

This bird is famous for its sweet whistling song and can often be found perching on tree branches or feeding at backyard bird feeders around the state.

Ohio is home to an abundance of biodiversity, and the cardinal’s presence serves as a powerful reminder of this fact and the necessity of conserving natural habitats for future generations to enjoy.

Do eagles live in Ohio?

Yes, Ohioans! Eagles do live here! The majestic American Bald Eagle can be found nesting in marshes, swamps, and river systems throughout Ohio. Once suffering a dramatic decrease with only four breeding pairs present back in 1979, its population has since experienced substantial recovery.

Ohio boasts an eagle population estimated to number 707 nests according to a 2020 nest census, evidence of its healthy and robust eagle population. If you enjoy nature or birdwatching, Ohio provides many opportunities to spot these magnificent birds as they soar through the skies or rest in their nests.

Keep an eye out for Ohio’s iconic white-headed and dark-feathered bald eagles as they continue to thrive in Ohio and make homes here.

What are the predators of Ohio?

Ohio is home to both native and invasive predators that play an essential role in keeping its ecosystems balanced. Ohio once boasted numerous natural predators like black bears, bobcats, and eastern wolves, which had significant numbers; these species have all seen their populations severely decrease due to colonization efforts.

Prior to the mid-1800s, coyotes were only found in western states of America; as more people settled states and populations expanded, native predators became scarcer. Now, in Ohio, however, common predators include coyotes, red foxes, raccoons, and various bird species such as hawks and owls.

Predators play an essential role in controlling populations of prey species and maintaining Ohio’s ecosystems, and visitors to Ohio’s parks and wilderness areas may get to witness one in action!

What kind of state is Ohio?

Ohio is an exciting and varied state situated at the center of the Midwest region in the United States. Famed for its rich history, vibrant cities, and beautiful countryside – Ohio provides something special for residents and visitors alike.

Ohio boasts beautiful Great Lakes shorelines and recreational opportunities that attract thousands of tourists each year, as well as a robust economy encompassing industries spanning manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture.

Ohio offers something for every visitor. Explore Columbus or relax along Lake Erie shorelines; hike the Appalachian foothills; Ohio has something to offer everyone.

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