Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park, Hamilton Ohio
Things to do

5 Ways to Observe World Wildlife Day

Celebrate World Wildlife Day in Butler County, Ohio

World Wildlife Day is celebrated every year on March 3 to celebrate and appreciate wild animals and plants. Every year, we recognize the unique roles and contributions of wildlife to people and the planet. Here are 5 ways you can participate in observing World Wildlife Day in Butler County!

1. Birding

Our parks and wildlife areas are home to an enormous amount of birds, making Butler County a great place for birding. Whether you are a birdwatcher or photographer, we have a complete guide to bird watching in Butler County— check it out here!

2. Bull's Run Nature Sanctuary and Arboretum

Bull's Run Arboretum

This beautiful 11 acre park is home to multiple hiking trails, a rain garden, arboretum, meadow and so much more. In addition to the beautiful, peaceful haven that you will experience on the walking trails at Bull's Run Arboretum and Sanctuary, you will also find a butterfly garden that encourages healthy pollination in the area. 

3. Fishing Lakes

Fishing Lakes, Ohio

Respecting wildlife while fishing is essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems and preserving natural habitats. Come check out the many wonderful fishing lakes here in Butler County! Here are some tips on how to fish respectfully and minimize your impact on the environment:

  • Know and follow regulations: Familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations and seasons. Regulations are in place to protect wildlife populations and ensure sustainable fishing practices.
  • Practice catch and release: If you're not fishing for food, consider catch and release. Handle fish with care, minimize their time out of the water, and use barbless hooks to reduce injury. Release fish gently to give them the best chance of survival.

  • Dispose of waste properly: Remove all trash, including fishing line, hooks, and bait containers. Fishing lines can entangle wildlife, and hooks can cause injury if ingested. Dispose of all waste in designated bins or take it home with you.

  • Respect wildlife habitats: Avoid disturbing sensitive habitats such as nesting areas, spawning grounds, and aquatic vegetation. Stay on designated trails and avoid trampling vegetation along shorelines.

4. Hiking Trails

Forest Run MetroPark, Hamilton Ohio

Every park holds its own unique charm and opportunity for adventure; from picturesque trails to breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders. At Forest Run MetroPark in Hamilton, you can experience a beautiful scenic preserve that offers over 340 acres of meadows, wetlands, a prairie and a creek— all of which provide a diverse habitat for a diverse variety of wildlife. 

Pater Wildlife Area in Reily Township offers multiple hiking trails, and is known for being a great spot for birdwatching. A variety of songbirds can be found throughout the area year-round, and many other bird species use the area in the spring and fall during migration.

5. Roam Responsibly

Rentschler Forest, Fairfield Ohio

While it’s one thing to understand what sustainable travel means, it’s another to actually put it into practice. If your goal is to make your next trip more sustainable check out these small ways you can roam more responsibly!

  • Leave parks the way you found them
  • Pick up your trash
  • Don't disturb the wildlife 
  • Be kind to nature

 

Happy World Wildlife Day!

Things to do