By Bob Jacksy, Metroparks naturalist

This has been a year that will be remembered for a long time for folks who enjoy watching birds. With the great weather and favorable wind directions, a terrific diversity of winged wanderers has been visiting the area.

Some species, like the American robin and yellow warbler may decide to stick around and nest. Others, such as the gray-cheeked thrush will continue their migration almost all the way to the Arctic tundra.

The Metroparks and other natural areas are vital to these migratory creatures because they provide places where they can load up on their necessary food – insects. High in protein, insects refuel these flying gems so they can reach their nesting grounds.

Let’s hope for many more birding seasons like the spring of 2014.