Celebrate National Bird Day in Cuyahoga Valley

Bald Eagle

Northern Cardinal

Blue Heron

Celebrate National Bird Day in the Valley

National Bird Day is celebrated each year on January 5. Not only is this day an opportunity to pause, look up, and appreciate the incredible birds that share our landscapes, but every day in the national park offers the same chance. Stop, look up, and recognize the importance of protecting them and their habitats. Cuyahoga Valley National Park is home to more than 200 bird species throughout the year, making it a wonderful place to observe birds both on the trails and from the train.

One of the most exciting sightings in the Valley is the Bald Eagle. Once endangered, bald eagles have made a strong comeback and can often be seen soaring high above the park or perched in tall trees near waterways. Look for them along the Cuyahoga River, near wetlands, and in quieter stretches of the park where they can hunt and nest. Train riders frequently catch glimpses of eagles while traveling alongside the river corridor.

The Northern Cardinal, Ohio’s state bird, is a year-round resident and especially easy to spot in winter. Their bright red feathers stand out against snowy landscapes. Cardinals favor wooded edges, shrubs, and feeder-friendly areas, and can be seen throughout the park near trailheads, picnic areas, and even from train windows as the railroad winds through forested sections of the Valley.

Another familiar and striking species is the Great Blue Heron. These tall, graceful birds are most often found along riverbanks, wetlands, and marshy areas, standing motionless as they hunt for fish. In Cuyahoga Valley National Park, herons are commonly seen along the Cuyahoga River and in wetland areas near Beaver Marsh, offering excellent viewing opportunities for hikers and train passengers alike.

National Bird Day is more than a celebration, it’s a reminder of the vital role birds play in healthy ecosystems and the importance of conservation. Habitat loss, pollution, and illegal wildlife trade continue to threaten bird populations worldwide. By supporting conservation efforts, reducing pollution, and observing birds responsibly in nature, we can all help protect these species.

This winter, we invite you to experience birdwatching in the Valley, whether you’re riding the train, walking the trails, or simply enjoying a quiet moment along the river. Bring your binoculars, keep your camera ready, and don’t forget to look up. If you’ve captured photos of birds in the park recently, we’d love to see them—share your sightings and help celebrate the rich birdlife of Cuyahoga Valley National Park.