Hinckley Reservation--Buzzard Roost

Tips for Birding

On West Drive, you will pass the scenic overlook which offers a view of the shallow east end of Hinckley Lake and the wooded hillsides beyond. Continuing on West Drive, you will soon come to the Buzzard Roost parking lot on the right. This open area of cultivated fields and field edges attracts nesting Eastern Towhees, Field Sparrows, and Indigo Buntings, among others.

About this Location

Every year on March 15 since 1957, the city of Hinckley Ohio has eagerly awaited the return of the buzzards at “Buzzard Roost” at the Hinckley Reservation, part of the Cleveland Metroparks.

The buzzard, a common name for the “turkey vulture,” is a large graceful bird with a bald head and red beak. No relation to the black, Old World vulture family, which includes the eagle, hawk, and kite, the buzzard is native to the Americans from southern Canada to the tip of Cape Horn.

The annual Return of the Buzzard celebration starts early (6:30 am) at the Hinckley Reservation in the Cleveland Metroparks. Led by “Official Buzzard Spotter,” early risers raise their binoculars and cameras to compete for the first sighting. It’s all in good fun, and a sure sign that spring is on the way. Coffee and treats are customarily served.

The Sunday following March 15 is “Buzzard Sunday” at the Hinckley Reservation, a family fun day celebrating the buzzards.

About Hinckley Reservation

See all hotspots at Hinckley Reservation

At the southern end of Cleveland Metroparks is Hinckley Reservation, the site of the nationally-known annual Return of the Buzzards. From hiking at Whipp’s Ledges to kayaking on Hinckley Lake, there are a variety of activities here for everyone.

Another attraction of the reservation is Whipp’s Ledges, with elevations rising 350 feet above Hinckley Lake and formed more than 250 million years ago.

Worden’s Ledges has unique carvings made in the 1940s by Noble Stuart, son-in-law to the namesake of the ledges, Hiram Worden. Hike the Worden’s Ledges loop trail to see the carvings.

Rising Valley, located off Newton Road, which was transferred by Hinckley Township to Cleveland Metroparks, has public access trails.

Features

  • Restrooms on site

  • Wheelchair accessible trail

  • Entrance fee

  • Roadside viewing

Content from Hinckley Reservation Official Website, Article on The Buzzards of Hinckley, and Ohio Ornithological Society