Attempt to hold some seed, then a hungry bird, on your hand. Now through April, the “Bird in the Hand Feeding Station” has returned to The West Woods in Russell Township where you can give it a try. In optimal conditions, volunteers have reported as many as 60 chickadees in 20 minutes.
Time your visit between 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. and dress warmly —extra layers, hat and gloves — since you will be standing still. Your first stop should be to The West Woods Nature Center to collect some black oil sunflower seed to use during your visit. (Note that the feeder is not placed along the trail this year, so don’t forget to stop at the nature center for your seed!)
Hand-feeding works best with just one or two people or a small group, like three or four. Cold days, especially in the morning, are often the best times to visit, as birds start feeding soon after they wake up to put on fat and have energy to survive the cold weather. Late afternoon is another good time, since birds need to stock up on nutrition before roosting somewhere for the night.
Upon getting your seed, head out on the Trout Lily Trail and follow the signage to the spot where you can try your hand. “Parker” is a mannequin who marks the spot where you can hold out your hand with some seed and wait. He also keeps the birds familiar with a human presence at the spot (Parker is pretty realistic; then again, birds are fairly easy to fool.)
Birds come in waves, so you may need to wait a little while for the next one to come. But odds are you’ll have at least a few takers if you’re patient, taking in the peace and quiet for a handful of minutes or so.
The West Woods is located at 9465 Kinsman Road (Route 87) in Russell Township. Additional guidance can be found at www.geaugaparkdistrict.org/
Due to COVID-19 and social distancing guidelines, all public programs and special events are subject to change or be cancelled. Please check our website for updates before heading out. Thank you.
For more on Geauga Park District offerings, please call 440-286-9516 or visit Geauga Park District online via geaugaparkdistrict.org, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or YouTube.
