Scioto Trail

This IBA consists of the 9,390-acre Scioto State Forest, the 250-acre Scioto Trail State Park, and surrounding habitat. Its location at the northern edge of the unglaciated plateau in large bend of the Scioto River provides a significant stopover site for migrants moving north and south along the Scioto. Primarily forested by mixed oak, much of the habitat consists of a mix of ridge habitat and bottomlands along tributaries of the Scioto River. Much of the savannah-like mid-story forest provides important habitat.

Ornithological Summary

Next to Shawnee State Forest this is the primary Southern Ohio site for migrants, including any species that regularly migrates though the state. Spring migration peaks by late April/early May as early migrants have already commenced nesting. At least 14 breeding warblers have been recorded, including IBA priority species Blue-winged Warbler and Cerulean Warbler. Other breeding passerines include Northern Parulas, Yellow-throated Warblers, Pine Warblers, Black-and-white Warblers, American Redstarts, Worm-eating Warblers, Ovenbirds, Louisiana Waterthrushes, Kentucky Warblers, Common Yellowthroats, Hooded Warblers, and Yellow-breasted Chats. Other breeding IBA priority species include Yellow-billed Cuckoo and Whip-poor-will. Ruffed Grouse nests here along with southern-typical species such as White-eyed Vireo and Summer Tanager. Certain warbler species are very numerous during spring migration including Tennessee Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, and Bay-breasted Warbler.

Conservation Issues

Birdlife would benefit from targeted management for birds and potential unique forest types. Logging in uplands can be problematic for existing bird populations and management might be adjusted based on targeted suites of birds.

Ownership

Owner: ODNR Division of Forestry, Scioto Trail State Forest