As ice forms on Lake Erie, nearly all the Bonaparte's Gulls depart for the East Coast and beyond. Concentrations of the large, white-headed gulls usually move into the warm water outlets. While I am sure it is not the gulls’ intent, they often defy birdwatchers to make correct identifications. Species include all ages and varieties of Ring-billed, Herring, California, Thayer's, Iceland, Glaucous, Lesser Black-backed and Great Black-backed Gulls. Many a spirited discussion and much confusion has taken place over the years among the local gull enthusiasts. It is a difficult pill to swallow for some, but we must face the fact that some gulls just cannot have a name placed on them. The hybridization factor and variability of plumage with individual species makes for very difficult identification in some cases. Sites like Eastlake Power Plant, E. 72nd St. and Avon Lake Power Plant can hold many thousands of these large gulls. Of course, there are other distractions for those who can withstand the cold.

Ducks often take refuge at these well-known areas and January is a good time for birders to scour the flocks of diving ducks with hopes of sifting out the rare Harlequin Duck or King Eider. Often they are rewarded with not-so-rare, but equally enjoyable Long-tailed Ducks, Surf, Black and White-winged Scoters. Puddle ducks are usually less abundant and dominated by Mallards and American Black Ducks. The Black Ducks are very widespread and often can be found foraging the rapids sections of the higher quality streams in the region. Wood Ducks are fairly rare at this season, but Gadwalls, American Wigeons, Northern Pintails, Northern Shovelers and Green-winged Teals are usually found in small numbers.

The many Akron Lakes often have ice-free areas, and trips to these locations are sure to reward the adventuresome. For those less hardy souls, leisurely drives into the rural areas on the outskirts of the region can provide excellent views of Northern Harriers, Red-shouldered and Rough-legged Hawks. These same areas often contain flocks of Wild Turkeys, Horned Larks, Snow Buntings and Lapland Longspurs. Some of the favorite driving tours at this time of year are through patches of country near Wellington, Lorain County and the Burton/Middlefield areas in eastern Geauga County. Water is a key element in finding birds at any time of year, and midwinter provides excellent opportunities to see Bald Eagles and Great Blue Herons along any of the region’s watersheds.

As in December, large gatherings of geese are to be sorted though with hopes of finding a displaced Snow Goose or even rarer Greater White-fronted Goose. Daring birders might be surprised at what they might find on a hike through marshy wetlands in January. Glimpses of a wintering Virginia Rail, Marsh Wren, Common Yellowthroat or any of the many sparrows that winter locally are distinct possibilities.

Most coniferous woodlands harbor loosely organized groups of common residents along with Brown Creepers, Golden-crowned Kinglets, Red-breasted Nuthatches and Yellow-rumped Warblers. These birds can be tough to find, but hikes in the Akron Watershed properties, many of our local Metroparks, as well as Findley, Punderson and West Branch State Parks should eventually reward the birder.