Welcome to the 14th annual Biggest Week in American Birding, held in northwest Ohio each year at Magee Marsh and the Black Swamp Bird Observatory. Thrilling birders of all levels, this 10-day marathon celebrates the incredible phenomenon of bird migration, with zealous attention toward the dozens of warbler species that stop here. Thousands venture from around the world to view songbirds and waterfowl on their migratory journey and join in the workshops, hikes, boat trips, and various guided activities. Its dynamic events make it effortless to experience the best birding region in North America – and a memorable event not to be missed!
The Black Swamp Bird Observatory is proud to be celebrating its 14th year May 5-14, 2023, headquartered at Maumee Bay Lodge & Conference Center. Each spring, tens of thousands of visitors from all 50 states, 54 countries, and 6 continents come to northwest Ohio to experience the incredible phenomenon of bird migration. It’s no wonder that birding has become one of the top attractions in the Toledo region and is now recognized as one of the best birding areas in North America.
The Biggest Week in American Birding is a 10-day festival that offers birders the ultimate experience. From workshops, guided birding hikes, boat trips, and keynote presentations, to a Birder’s Marketplace and social events, this festival has something for everyone – from beginner to seasoned birders. Put it on your calendar – The Biggest Week in American Birding is an event not to be missed!
It is the perfect opportunity to observe a wide variety of songbirds and waterfowl during their annual migration, but it is the star of the show, the small but mighty warbler, that brings people from all over the world to Magee Marsh. Drawing in thousands of birders with their binoculars, cameras, and checklists, they hope to capture a glimpse of the many species of warblers that can make an appearance at this epicenter of birding.
The Black Swamp Observatory
Located in Oak Harbor, Ohio, the Black Swamp Observatory (BSO) is one of the best places to witness the songbird migration in all of North America. With Lake Erie acting as a barrier that the birds must cross, they often gather and rest in the marshlands along the lake’s southern edge, making the BSO an ideal spot for birders. During the early spring season, birders can observe up to 20 species of warblers, thrushes, vireos, flycatchers, orioles, eagles, and shorebirds.
Northwest Ohio is celebrated as a birding mecca, especially in springtime. The Black Swamp Observatory in Oak Harbor proudly touts the region as one of the top places to witness the songbird migration in all of North America. This is due in part to Lake Erie acting as a barrier that the birds must cross, causing them to gather and rest in the marshlands along the lake’s southern edge. Additionally, the early spring season provides excellent visibility for birders to observe up to 20 species of warblers, thrushes, vireos, flycatchers, orioles, eagles, and shorebirds. Metroparks Toledo further enhances birding opportunities with its many parks and natural areas.
The Oak Openings region is a haven for nesting bluebirds, indigo buntings, and whippoorwills. Pearson Park, Toledo Botanical Garden, and Howard Marsh are all hotspots for migrating birds in the spring and fall respectively. Birders of all skill levels have much to discover in Metroparks Toledo!
During the first two weeks of May, birders can expect to witness a heavy migration and an impressive variety of bird species. With the right weather conditions and access to the Black Swamp Bird Observatory for up-to-date info on bird sightings, one is sure to have a successful birding adventure in Toledo.
If you’re looking to explore nature and get some exercise, birding may just be the perfect pastime. Don’t limit yourself: come and join us at the Biggest Week in American Birding and take part in the many festivities and events available to the public.
Through its numerous attractions, including exceptional opportunities to witness the spectacular bird migration, the Black Swamp Bird Observatory’s Biggest Week in American Birding offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for birdwatchers to view a wide range of species in northwest Ohio. Each year, thousands of people from across the globe flock to Magee Marsh, eager to see the week’s star of the show, the warbler. With so much to do and see, the Biggest Week in American Birding is not one to be missed!
