David M. Roderick Wildlife Reserve (State Game Lands 314)
| Erie |
| DESCRIPTION: State Game Lands 314 spans 3,131 acres. The Ohio state line is the western border of these game lands, and the Lake Erie shoreline forms their northern border for about 1.5 miles. This segment of the shoreline is the longest undeveloped reach of Lake Erie's south shore between Toledo, Ohio, and Buffalo, New York. The overlook spot, the site of the David M. Roderick Monument, offers a nearly unspoiled view of the lake and its natural shoreline, except for the westward sight of the Conneaut, Ohio, breakwater and the occasional seagoing vessel entering or leaving the area. The most common species here include American Woodcock, rabbit, Ruffed Grouse, and White-tailed Deer. The lake and its shoreline mark a major north-south migration route for birds, including raptors, waterfowl, and over one hundred songbird species. In spring, birds flying north use this area as a rest stop before they take wing over the lake, and in the fall, birds flying south rest in this area after their journey over the water. The overlook is a cleared, grassy area about 100 yards long at the David M. Roderick Monument, and the site stands about 100 feet above the water. Visible to the east is a clifflike stretch of undeveloped Lake Erie shoreline; to the west, more shoreline and the Conneaut breakwater. This is the best place to watch for migrating gulls, terns, and raptors. The rest of the area has a number of crisscrossing roads that will take you through a variety of habitats and produce a variety of birds. Cedar Waxwing are frequently found here and this location has several records of Bohemian Waxwing, so check all waxwing flocks carefully in the winter. |
DIRECTIONS: Directions: From US 20, where US 20 and PA 5 meet at West Springfield, turn north onto Rudd Road, which is clearly marked with a street sign. Drive 2.6 miles north on Rudd Road to its end at Lake Road. Turn left (west) onto Lake Road and drive 1.4 miles to the monument's parking area on the north side of Lake Road. |
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| Posted: 2009-10-24 00:00:00 Updated: |
