By Caitlin Ambrose, Interpretive Manager

With a striking red body and brilliant black wings, the scarlet tanager is one of the most beautiful summertime birds in Lake County. They have traveled to Ohio after spending winter in South America.

Found high in the trees of the forest, the scarlet tanager enjoys eating insects but can be found eating berries as well. The female is an olive-green color with dark wings and is the architect for building the nest. She will lay three to five eggs. Once hatched, the babies will be fully grown after 15 days.

Look closely for the strikingly-colored scarlet tanager as they will be here through the summer.