Deer Haven shares an entrance with neighboring Havener Park. If you pass the first parking lot, which is the lot for Havener, and head to the right, you'll find the lot for Deer Haven near its great visitor center. Around the exterior of the building is a native plant pollinator garden near bird feeders and an insect hotel. There are also box turtles behind the building during warm weather. Another wonderful new feature in this area is the Deer Haven Aviary, which showcases a variety of birds of prey that cannot be returned to the wild. Signage indicates that the birds will rotate out in conjunction with Ohio Nature Education (ONE). On our visit, we were able to view turkey vultures, red-tailed hawks, and red-shouldered hawks.
A great aspect of Deer Haven is that it is a great way to view a variety of habitats close together: wetland, meadow, pond, and forest are connected through the three trails, Tree Swallow Trail, Bent Tree Ridge Trail & Creek Crossing, and Grass Trail. Both the Tree Swallow and Grass Trails also connect to Havener Park trails, so you can extend your explorations.
There is currently a neat science exhibit available in the park. We found a fascinating one in the wetland area, in which a mini wetland is available in a case to be examined by a magnifying glass, with an identification key for different critters available. There is also a magnifying glass stand so that you can place things you find, like rocks or plants, inside of the post to examine.
Fun place to visit! read more