COLUMBUS, OH - The sights and sounds of spring will surround visitors at Eagle Creek State Nature Preserve during its wildflower and bird hikes Saturday, May 8. The event is the second in the state's Natural Areas Discovery Series, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
The Portage County preserve will host "Wildflower Rambles" from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., with guided hikes at 7:30 a.m., 10 a.m. and noon. The 7:30 a.m. hike along the. Beaver Run Trail focuses on the birds of Eagle Creek in a rarely-visited area of the preserve. The 10 a.m. and noon hikes will highlight a variety of spring blooms seen along the preserve's trails. The 10 a.m. walk will be longer and visitors are encouraged to bring water and a snack. The trails are rated easy to moderate and range from three-fourths of a mile to 2.5 miles in length.
More than 70 wildflower species bloom throughout Eagle Creek in early May, including white and red trillium, 13 species of violets, yellow and white trout lilies, squirrel corn, Dutchman's breeches, and acres of Virginia bluebells. Looking to the skies, visitors can admire wood warblers and other returning nesting birds such as northern orioles, scarlet tanagers, rose-breasted grosbeaks, and indigo buntings.
The Natural Areas Discovery Series kicked off in April and each month through October will feature scheduled hikes and interpretive activities at selected state nature preserves. The monthly programs are free and open to the public. The ODNR Division of Natural Areas & Preserves sponsors the series.
For more information about the Discovery Series visit ohiodnr.com, or for specific information about the May 8 event at Eagle Creek State Nature Preserve call 330-527-5118.