Mansfield Lahm Airport and Vicinity

Birds of Interest

Upland Sandpiper, Henslow's Sparrow

About this Location

Mansfield Lahm Airport and Vicinity is identified by Audubon Ohio as an Important Bird Area (IBA). Ernsberger Road and other roads in this area traverse private lands. Please, view birds at the airport from public areas or in the vicinity from the roadside only.

This IBA consists of open grassy fields, mostly within the grounds of the airport, as well as in surrounding agricultural areas. Mowed open areas are associated with the airport and National Guard facilities.

A breeding site for Upland Sandpiper and other grassland birds. May hold 1-5% of the state breeding population of Upland Sandpiper. Other areas outside and bordering the airport are privately owned but are used by the Upland Sandpipers and Henslow’s Sparrows.

The airport is fenced off, so it is hard to survey. Some of the best areas are not fenced and are off Ernsberger Road (NW of the airport). The restricted access to areas has probably helped the birds. On the other hand, private land could be developed or taken out of agriculture and developed. The birds use these private lands as well, and Henslow’s Sparrows are often also in the private areas.

Features

  • Roadside viewing

  • Restrooms on site

Content from Mansfield Lahm Airport Important Bird Area (Audubon) webpage