Bird Watching In Mentor Marsh & The Civil War: A Weekend Planner

1. FALL MIGRATORY BIRDING BONANZA

Where/When: Mentor Marsh Nature Preserve, 2 p.m. Sunday

Why Go: Mentor Marsh features upland forests, marsh grass, and open water that attracts dozens of migrating bird species including raptors, ducks, shorebirds, sparrows and warblers.

Guides will discuss local and long-distance migratory patterns and species as they hike along the Marsh trails. Birders from all over the region come flocking here to birdwatch during migration--both spring and fall. Some rarities spotted recently at the Marsh include sedge wrens, Nelson's sparrows, Lincoln sparrow, and a Western kingbird.

Bring binoculars or they will have some to lend. Birders of all levels welcome. Group birding is a great way to learn the intricacies of identification.

Reservations are always recommended so that people know you are coming. Please call the Nature Center at 440-257-0777 or email rdonalds@cmnh.org to register or for more information.

Pricing: Free

2. THE BATTLE OF PERRYVILLE

Where/When: Mentor Public Library Main Branch, noon Wednesday

Why Go: The Battles of the Civil War series continues this Wednesday with the Battle of Perryville -- presented in partnership with the Garfield National Historic Site.

The October 8, 1862 battle of Perryville, Kentucky, will be discussed this month.

Perryville was a tactical victory for Gen. Braxton Bragg and the Confederacy, but an eventual retreat set the stage for the battle of Stone's River at the end of 1862.

Pricing: Free

3. BEHIND THE SCENES TOUR AT GARFIELD HISTORIC SITE

Where/When: James A. Garfield National Historic Site, 11 a.m., Saturday

Why Go: The "Behind the Scenes" tour includes a visit to the basement, servants quarters and third floor of the home, along with an inside look at the windmill and 1870’s barn—areas not visited during regular tours.

The tour is about 90 minutes and begins at the Visitor Center. Reservations are required. Participants must be 16 years or older.

Pricing: $15

4. VARSITY CHALK TALK

Where/When: Hooley House, 7 p.m. Monday

Why Go: What's almost as good as watching high school football? Talking about it with the experts!

Every Monday, Bill Tilton of Varsity Chalk Talk hosts a Q & A with players and coaches from around the region.

Mentor Head Coach Steve Trivisonno and Lake Catholic Head Coach Mike Bell are frequent guests.

Pricing: Free