Take the Car and Check Out These 3 Birdwatching Destinations Near Dublin, OH

With plenty of sprawling nature reserves and wildlife refuges, central Ohio is a fantastic destination for birdwatching, wildlife photography, and other outdoor activities. Located in the northwestern outskirts of Columbus, the city of Dublin, OH, is a great base to discover the best birding spots in the region. Here are three of our favorite destinations where you can check out some rare species of birds and enjoy some relaxing time in nature.

1. Killdeer Plains Wildlife Area

An excellent area for viewing a plethora of different wildlife species in their natural environment, Killdeer Plains Wildlife Area is a well-known destination among birders from all over central Ohio. Located about 50 miles northwest of the Dublin city center, this nature reserve can be reached in just one hour by car via route OH-257.

Encompassing over 9,000 acres of territory, Killdeer Plains Wildlife Area provides habitat to large populations of red-winged blackbirds, Tennessee warblers, black-throated blue warblers, bald eagles, northern harriers, and short-eared owls. This wildlife refuge is not only an excellent birding destination but also a fantastic spot for other recreational activities including hiking, selective hunting, fishing, and picnicking.

2. Big Island Wildlife Area

Located just 40 miles north of downtown Dublin, Big Island Wildlife Area is another top-rated birding destination that features expansive meadows, wetlands, and hardwood forests. Encompassing an area of nearly 6,000 acres, this nature reserve provides habitat to large populations of blue-winged teals, mourning doves, Canada geese, trumpeter swans, great blue herons, northern harriers, upland sandpipers, and other species of local and migratory birds.

Driving from Dublin to Big Island Wildlife Area takes about 50 minutes via route OH-257. Although there are no designated trails in this nature reserve, a scenic viewing deck located right off route OH-95 offers great views of the surroundings. This wildlife refuge is open year-round between dawn and dusk and is a fantastic place to spend a day in nature.

3. Delaware State Park

Established in 1952 and located just 25 miles north of Dublin, Delaware State Park is another top-rated birding destination that covers an area of nearly 1,700 acres. Open year-round for camping, hiking, boating, selective hunting, picnicking, and other recreational activities, this place is a well-known spot among visitors from all over central Ohio. Some of the bird species that can be found here include white-breasted nuthatch, prothonotary warbler, red-shouldered hawk, and barred owl.

With standard all-wheel drive, a powerful and efficient engine, and premium seating for five occupants, the 2022 Kia Sportage LX is a great vehicle to go on fantastic road trips in Ohio and beyond. Stop by Twins Auto of Dublin today, take your favorite vehicle on a test drive, and ask our team members about the flexible financing options available for you.

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