Bird Watching & Wildlife

From lakes to waterfalls, rivers to Towpath Trail wanderings, views from train windows and the deep gorges of a National Natural Landmark — it’s all waiting for you here.

Join us in observing the ABA Code of Birding Ethics - when viewing both our two-winged and four-footed Canalway neighbors.

Ethics for Birding/Wildlife Observation

The American Birding Association (ABA) tells us “everyone who enjoys birds and birding must always respect wildlife, its environment, and the rights of others. In any conflict of interest between birds and birders, the welfare of the birds and wildlife and their environment comes first.”

Learn more about protecting and nurturing our fine feathered friends. Read the full list of ABA Principles of Birding Ethics: http://www.aba.org/about/ethics.html

Fun to Know

• The Beaver Marsh in the National Park was once an automobile junk yard. People reclaimed it and nature joined the effort. Beavers built a dam across the Ohio & Erie Canal, flooding the area - leading to the wetland development. Learn more in Canalway Stories.
• Spring birding in the Canalway peaks in April-May - with thousands of migrating beauties arriving daily. The Fall season runs September-November.
• Dike 14 in the Cleveland Lakefront Nature Preserve acts as a stopover site for more than 280 species of birds. The spot is at the intersection of four migratory bird routes and is, needless to say, a birder-magnet. Sharp eyes also can see mink, foxes and coyotes.
• In 2010, Outdoor Photographer magazine named Cuyahoga Valley National Park one of the top 25 locations in the world for nature photography, alongside parks in Chile, India and Alaska.