Headwaters Highlight: Rangers welcome bird watchers to Berlin Lake as a growing birding hotspot

Pittsburgh District
Published June 2, 2023
Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir

Elizabeth Morsillo, a park ranger for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, poses for a portrait in front of a pole of purple martin gourds she helped set up for migration season at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. The purple martin is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region each spring, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir

Elizabeth Morsillo, a park ranger for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, uses a phone app to identify species in the area by recording the sound of their bird calls at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. Hundreds of bird species migrate through the region throughout the year, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir

A duet of osprey roost on a nest they built on top of a light pole at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 18, 2023. The osprey is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Elizabeth Morsillo)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir

A magnificent hummingbird flies toward a birdfeeder at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 18, 2023. The magnificent hummingbird is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Elizabeth Morsillo)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir

A Carolina chickadee perches on a birdfeeder at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 18, 2023. The Carolina chickadee is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Elizabeth Morsillo)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir

A downy woodpecker grabs onto a birdfeeder at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 18, 2023. The downy woodpecker is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Elizabeth Morsillo)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir

Two wood ducks float on the water at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 18, 2023. The wood duck is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Elizabeth Morsillo)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir

A cedar waxwing perches on a tree branch at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 18, 2023. The cedar waxwing is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Elizabeth Morsillo)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir

A yellow warbler rests on the ground at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 18, 2023. The yellow warbler is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Hannah Smith)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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Two purple martins rest on a gourd pole installed by staff for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 18, 2023. The purple martin is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Elizabeth Morsillo)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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A redheaded woodpecker grabs onto a birdfeeder at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 18, 2023. The redheaded woodpecker is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Elizabeth Morsillo)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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Maintenance workers for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District move picnic tables to improve visitor experience at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. Berlin Lake an ideal destination for recreation activities, fishing and bird watching. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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Maintenance workers for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District move picnic tables to improve visitor experience at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. Berlin Lake an ideal destination for recreation activities, fishing and bird watching. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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Park rangers with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District at Berlin Lake drilled holes into a stack of logs to create a bee hotel for solitary bees, May 12, 2023. Bees help pollinate wildflowers, which attract more insects and provide food sources for more birds to migrate to the area, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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Honeybees reenter a hole leading to an indoor beehive set up by rangers from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. Bees help pollinate wildflowers, which attract more insects and provide food sources for more birds to migrate to the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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Honeybees reenter a hole leading to an indoor beehive set up by rangers from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. Bees help pollinate wildflowers, which attract more insects and provide food sources for more birds to migrate to the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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A Canada goose eats dandelions at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. The Canada goose is just one of the hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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A cormorant rests on a buoy at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. The cormorant is just one of the hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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Barn swallows return to their nests below the control tower at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. The barn swallow is just one of the hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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Water flows through the dam at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. Berlin Lake offers a great habitat to hundreds of bird species, making it an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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An angler fishes at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. Berlin Lake is well known for its fishing opportunities. However, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers park rangers also want to attract more visitors to enjoy the lake’s diverse bird population. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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Park rangers for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District watch for birds at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. Berlin Lake offers an excellent habitat for hundreds of bird species, making it an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake wantA great blue heron roosts in a nest at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. The gray blue heron is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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A wood duck box is among the hundreds of bird structures installed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio. Park rangers at Berlin Lake are devoted to improving the natural habitat for birds migrating through the region, making it an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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A house sparrow perches on a bird box at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. The house sparrow is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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Elizabeth Morsillo and Lydia Stephens, park rangers for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, watch for birds at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. Berlin Lake offers a great habitat to hundreds of bird species, making it an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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Troy Moore, a lead park ranger for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, observes a tower installed for chimney swifts that migrate to the Berlin Lake area in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. The chimney swift is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region each spring, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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Park rangers for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District raise a set of purple martin gourds for the spring migration season at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. The purple martin is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region each spring, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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Troy Moore, a lead park ranger for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, attaches purple martin gourds to a pole for the spring migration season at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. The purple martin is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region each spring, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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Park rangers for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District grab purple martin gourds to install for the spring migration season at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. The purple martin is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region each spring, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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Park rangers for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District grab purple martin gourds to install for the spring migration season at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. The purple martin is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region each spring, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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A groundhog scurries through the grass at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. Groundhogs are among the dozens of animal types in the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for observing wildlife. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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A gray catbird perches on a tree branch at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. The gray catbird is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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A hooded warbler perches on a tree branch at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. The hooded warbler is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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Lydia Stephens, a seasonal park ranger for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, watches for birds at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. Hundreds of bird species migrate through the region throughout the year, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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A tree swallow rests on a bird box at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. The tree swallow is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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An osprey balances on a tree branch at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. The osprey is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region each spring, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
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Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)

DEERFIELD, Ohio – Elizabeth Morsillo stepped out of the park ranger truck and aimed her cell phone toward the trees as the sound of bird calls surrounded her.

Within seconds, the phone’s screen filled with bird species identified by the app based on their chirps: prothonotary warbler, white-breasted nuthatch, wood thrush, tufted titmouse. The list grew by the tweet.

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
Birds of Berlin Lake
Elizabeth Morsillo, a park ranger for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, uses a phone app to identify species in the area by recording the sound of their bird calls at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. Hundreds of bird species migrate through the region throughout the year, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)
Photo By: Michel Sauret
VIRIN: 230512-A-TI382-0741

“This is just a great day for me, being able to go around looking for and listening to birds. I will never complain about that,” said Morsillo, a park ranger for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District working at Berlin Lake.

Morsillo’s interest in birds began when her uncle, Tom Rakestraw, took her on a birding trip a few years ago. She became intrigued by how much he knew and shared, and soon she began to pick up on signs and sounds on her own. She is getting better at identifying some bird calls even without the app.

“For example, the yellow warbler sounds like he’s chirping, ‘Sweet! Sweet! I’m so sweet!’ And then there’s the catbird, which sounds more like a cat meowing, ‘Larry! Larry!’” she said while walking around the woods listening for various species.

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
Birds of Berlin Lake
A yellow warbler rests on the ground at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 18, 2023. The yellow warbler is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Hannah Smith)
Photo By: Michel Sauret
VIRIN: 230518-A-LM432-0005

Berlin Lake is already well known for its wildlife and fishing destination – with a healthy population of walleye, various bass, crappie, and muskies – but Morsillo said the reservoir is a great birding location many enthusiasts don’t know about.

“I think it’s a hidden gem around here,” Morsillo said. “People go birding all around, but we are becoming a hotspot for bird watching.”

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
Birds of Berlin Lake
Park rangers for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District watch for birds at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. Berlin Lake offers an excellent habitat for hundreds of bird species, making it an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)
Photo By: Michel Sauret
VIRIN: 230512-A-TI382-1217

She hopes more visitors discover the reservoir and its surrounding lands for the number of bird species that migrate through the area. Berlin Lake is located between Akron and Youngstown, Ohio. It falls along one of the Atlantic Flyway paths, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir attractive during migration periods.

Morsillo said the brush, wetlands and various habitats – along with being less than 60 miles from Lake Eerie – create the ideal conditions for various birds to thrive.

The lake is also a popular destination for fishing, water sports, hiking and camping.

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
Birds of Berlin Lake
An angler fishes at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. Berlin Lake is well known for its fishing opportunities. However, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers park rangers also want to attract more visitors to enjoy the lake’s diverse bird population. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)
Photo By: Michel Sauret
VIRIN: 230512-A-TI382-1235

“I grew up fishing at Berlin. As soon as the weather turns, we get phone calls asking, ‘what’s the water temperature?’ because as soon as it warms up, the walleye and the crappie are going to start biting,” said Curtis Burns, a park ranger.

Berlin Lake is a man-made reservoir constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District. They completed the dam on the Mahoning River in 1943 to form Berlin Lake. The reservoir’s congressionally-authorized purpose is to reduce flood damage, provide water supply for navigation and improve water quality downstream.

The reservoir preserves life and property for downstream communities while attracting local citizens for its recreation opportunities.

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
Birds of Berlin Lake
Water flows through the dam at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. Berlin Lake offers a great habitat to hundreds of bird species, making it an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)
Photo By: Michel Sauret
VIRIN: 230512-A-TI382-1419

The fishing popularity at Berlin is already well established, evident from the boat docks and boat launches around the lake. Rangers now want to shine more of the spotlight on the area’s birds.

“There’s just all kinds of cool birds around,” Morsillo said. “It would be cool to make it an even more popular birding spot.”

Bird hobbyists recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May according to the eBird website, which allows bird spotters to submit their finds. Park rangers at Berlin Lake want to see that number continue to grow.

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
Birds of Berlin Lake
Park rangers for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District raise a set of purple martin gourds for the spring migration season at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. The purple martin is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region each spring, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)
Photo By: Michel Sauret
VIRIN: 230512-A-TI382-1064

Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of birdhouses around the lake in recent years. They constructed and installed more than 200 bluebird boxes. They hang dozens of purple martin gourds each spring. Visitors can spot wood duck boxes all over the water or check out a tower built especially for chimney swifts.

Currently, a family of osprey return each year to the same light pole near a boat launch. The light pole isn’t ideal because the nest keeps falling apart, with twigs scattering all over the ground. The lake staff is working to add another pole nearby with a better platform to rehome the osprey family.

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
Birds of Berlin Lake
A duet of osprey roost on a nest they built on top of a light pole at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 18, 2023. The osprey is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Elizabeth Morsillo)
Photo By: Michel Sauret
VIRIN: 230518-A-LM432-0011

Besides shelters, the rangers have put serious thought into improving the entire ecosystem to bring more birds to their lands and waters.

With the help of the community, rangers planted several pollinator gardens to invite a diversity of insects, which offer food options for birds. The lake’s fish population draws not only anglers on sunny days, but also ospreys, herons, and cormorants to feast on the waters. This past winter, visitors spotted 24 bald eagles who came through the area for their own catch of fish before moving downriver.

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
Birds of Berlin Lake
Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)
Photo By: Michel Sauret
VIRIN: 230512-A-TI382-0684

“People don’t always think about the importance of wildlife. They think about the outside as being outside, but wildlife is interconnected to everyone’s life. When they visit here, we like to educate visitors to hopefully change their perspective and spark their imagination or excitement about nature,” Burns said.

At ranger station, Burns and the team also maintain several beehives to foster a better habitat for local wildlife. They installed an indoor beehive with a passageway through the wall for workers to bring pollen and nectar back to their colony. Burns is trying his hand at beekeeping with a new outdoor hive. He added a “bee hotel” by drilling holes into several logs stacked together for solitary bees.

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
Birds of Berlin Lake
Honeybees reenter a hole leading to an indoor beehive set up by rangers from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. Bees help pollinate wildflowers, which attract more insects and provide food sources for more birds to migrate to the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)
Photo By: Michel Sauret
VIRIN: 230512-A-TI382-1790

“The indoor beehive is a big ‘wow’ factor,” Curtis said. “We like to educate the public how each piece contributes to the intricacies of the ecosystem, and how wildlife is an integral part of everyday life.”

With more bees, more plants can grow, bringing more insects, which feed more birds migrating through their area. The staff is constantly working to improve their federal lands and waterways for both wildlife and visitors to make Berlin Lake an even more popular destination for critters and humans alike.

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
Birds of Berlin Lake
A groundhog scurries through the grass at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. Groundhogs are among the dozens of animal types in the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for observing wildlife. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)
Photo By: Michel Sauret
VIRIN: 230512-A-TI382-0798

“That’s probably one of the coolest things about the job,” said Troy Moore, the lead ranger at Berlin Lake. “We are always doing something different every day. There is plenty of fieldwork to do, and we all complement each other and lift each other up as a team.”

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
Birds of Berlin Lake
A Carolina chickadee perches on a birdfeeder at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 18, 2023. The Carolina chickadee is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Elizabeth Morsillo)
Photo By: Michel Sauret
VIRIN: 230518-A-LM432-0009

“Headwaters Highlights” is part of a story series to highlight every one of the facilities or teams that make the Pittsburgh District’s mission possible. Pittsburgh District’s 26,000 square miles include portions of western Pennsylvania, northern West Virginia, eastern Ohio, western Maryland, and southwestern New York. It has more than 328 miles of navigable waterways, 23 navigation locks and dams, 16 multi-purpose flood-control reservoirs, 42 local flood-protection projects, and other projects to protect and enhance the nation’s water resources, infrastructure and environment.

Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir
Birds of Berlin Lake
An osprey balances on a tree branch at Berlin Lake in Deerfield, Ohio, May 12, 2023. The osprey is just one of hundreds of bird species to migrate through the region each spring, making Berlin Lake an ideal destination for bird watchers. Park rangers and staff at Berlin Lake want to encourage more bird enthusiasts to visit the reservoir. Berlin Lake is located along the Atlantic Flyway path, considered a migration highway, making the reservoir a hotspot for birds during migration. Staff and volunteers have installed hundreds of various birdhouses, planted pollinator gardens, and maintain several beehives in the area to foster a better habitat for local wildlife and attract more birds to the region. As a result, birders recorded more than 200 bird species around the lake in early May, according to the eBird website. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completed the Berlin Lake project construction on the Mahoning River in 1943, with the congressionally authorized purpose of reducing flood damage, providing water supply for navigation, and improving water quality downstream. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Photos by Michel Sauret)
Photo By: Michel Sauret
VIRIN: 230512-A-TI382-0165