Growing up, The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare was my favorite story. Sure, it was set in New England, but the description of a vast lake surrounded by birdsong somehow felt familiar to me as a Clevelander. And the description of flashes of red dancing past as blackbirds flew by, it was immediately recognizable as a vivid painting of the stunning red-winged blackbird. There's no shortage of red-winged blackbirds in Cleveland, as these birds are incredibly common around the Great Lakes. They love grassy areas, typically near wetlands or lakes, and they often fill the air with their distinct oak-a-leeee call. With a distinct throaty consonant followed by a musical slur, these gorgeous birds are instantly recognizable and a sure sign that summer has come.
With a distinct call and eye-catching look, the red-winged blackbird is a true beauty.
In this video courtesy of the American Bird Conservancy YouTube channel, this bird's recognizable oak-a-leeee call resonates through the grassland. It's one of many songs these guys sing, and one of the more common calls from males of the species.
In this bird species, the males are recognizable for their velvety black feathers paired with a bold red and yellow shoulder.
As is true with many bird species, red-winged blackbirds are sexually dimorphic. Like peacocks, the males are just a little bit more fashionable than the females. Their mating season stretches from late April to late July or early August, so they have several months to flaunt their stuff and try to impress the ladies.
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The female red-winged blackbirds, on the other hand, are much more modest fashionistas.
Still gorgeous, these notably brown birds are obviously lacking the bright red shoulders of their male counterparts. Nonetheless, you'll often see a few of these gals around any one male. That's because the species is polygynous, meaning several females will claim one male as their social mate.
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As a social mate, the male red-winged blackbird must defend up to 10 females and their nests.
As three or four eggs are typical from each female, these proud daddies could be protecting up to 40 chicks at any given time. That's why if you encounter red-winged blackbirds in Cleveland, they're probably keeping a close eye on you and perhaps exhibiting some aggressive behavior.
Despite the strong father-child relationships when juvenile birds are still chicks, not all is perfect in red-winged blackbird paradise.
Here, an adult male and juvenile red-winged blackbird seem to be engaged in a vivid conversation. And while I am not a naturalist or fluent in bird, this little brown guy might be saying something like, "But you're not my real dad!" You see, though female red-winged blackbirds only take one social mate, they may actually mate with several males in a given mating season. As bird eggs are fertilized via polyspermy (multiple donors may fertilize a single egg), mixed paternity is common in this species.
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If you're hoping to see one of these beauties in Cleveland, you're in luck. They're all over the area, but we've also got some of the finest birdwatching sites in Ohio.
Magee Marsh in Oak Harbor, just about an hour from home, is rich in wetlands and is an excellent spot to look for red-winged blackbirds. Other spots, like Girdled Road Reservation, are recognized as an an Important Bird Area by Audubon Ohio.
Of course, you could also visit any stretch of Lake Erie's shore that's near an open grassy area or sparse forest.
It's so common to see red-winged blackbirds in Cleveland that you can almost expect it if you're hiking near water. As is true with most Northeast Ohio birds, these guys are a true sign of summer, as they tend to migrate to warmer climates once the threat of winter settles across the local landscape.
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The distinct oak-a-leeee calls of red-winged blackbirds are absolutely nostalgic for Clevelanders.
Keep your eyes peeled on your next hike... you just might see one of these beauties! If you don't, still keep your ears alert. Their lovely and warm songs just might float over to greet you.
Each year, the presence of red-winged blackbirds in Cleveland causes the air to fill with a distinctly recognizable song. These lovely little birds are a welcome sight in the Cleveland Metroparks, around Lake Erie, and in fields throughout Northeast Ohio. Have you ever snapped a photo of one? We'd love to see your masterpieces in the comments! Oh, and if you're looking to flaunt your love of the great outdoors, be sure to check out the Parks Project.
Love birding in Northeast Ohio? Mark your calendars for May, because the annual springtime migration will be here before you know it.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Cleveland most definitely has an unfair reputation. For decades people have been turning their noses up at what they saw as a declining Rustbelt relic. But what they don't know is that Cleveland is just as amazing as it's always been. With world-class institutions and entertainment, and national bests in many fields, we've got a lot more going on than we're ever given credit for. So here are the reasons why Cleveland is the most underrated city in the U.S. Once you have read about all the best things about living in Cleveland, you just might want to move here yourself.
The Cleveland Orchestra has been called the "finest orchestra in the country," and you only have to listen to them once to understand why. Whether you're into classical music or not, the CSO has something for you. Their repertoire is second to none, and the quality of the music is just outstanding. Are you a music lover and wondering "is Cleveland a good place to live?" If so, we can tell you the answer is a resounding "yes!"
2. We have the second-best art museum in the country.
After the Met in New York, the Cleveland Museum of Art has been named the best art museum in the country. The collection is world-class, and the CMA holds regular events for kids, adults, and families in order to get people involved in the arts. Plus, admission is free.
None of the experts thought the Cavs would win the championship. None of the experts thought the Indians would make it to the World Series. Skepticism and doubt came from all sides: no one thought Cleveland would excel. No one but Clevelanders, because we knew better. And just look at us now! Some of the best athletes in the US have been moving to Cleveland to improve our scene even more.
The American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration, in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association, awarded Cleveland the Gold Medal for Metroparks management in 2016. It's the fourth time we've held that honor since 1994. The Cleveland Metroparks offer all kinds of activities - from walking, hiking, and bike riding to magical Christmas train rides and medicinal plant workshops. They're home to the Cleveland Zoo and miles and miles of trails for you to explore.
According to historian and author Nat Brandt, it was a series of events occurring in Oberlin, OH, that catalyzed the beginning of the Civil War. The Abolitionist movement from Oberlin to Cleveland enraged pro-slavery sentiments in surrounding counties, cities, and states. One night, the townspeople of Oberlin and surrounding towns got together to free a runaway slave named John Price, who had been kidnapped by US Marshals. This Abolitionist jailbreak is credited as a breaking point that led to the beginning of the war.
Whether you're a staunch traditionalist or want to taste every food on the planet, Cleveland's burgeoning food scene has something for you. World-famous chefs like Michael Symon, Jonathan Sawyer, and Dante Boccuzzi are changing the food scene to include new and interesting local ingredients, as well as reinventing old favorites like BBQ. They're supporting local businesses and farmers in the process, and improving Cleveland's national and global image among foodies. In addition, there are local favorites like Slyman's that have been keeping every palate and budget in Cleveland happy and satisfied for years.
7. We have some of the best healthcare in the country.
Cleveland Clinic was named the number two hospital in the country for 2016-2017 by the US News & World Rankings. It's ranked number one for cardiology and heart surgery in the US, and nine of its other programs were ranked top five in the nation. This is good news for both the general population, and anyone in Ohio wanting to study medicine or specialize in certain medical fields.
The cost of living in Cleveland is between 10% and 21% below the national average (depending on the region taken into account and the means of calculating averages). Much of this is due to the low cost of housing, which has yet to fully recover from the Great Recession. But saving money on rent and mortgages means that other things in life are also more affordable.
As someone who moved to Cleveland, I can attest: Clevelanders are some of the nicest people I have ever met. If you respect them and their city, they will welcome you with open arms. You'll have recommendations for cafes, bars, restaurants, bands, and activities before you ever have to ask anyone. You'll get hugs and handshakes and how-are-yous from people you barely know. You will never be left without an invitation of friendship.
Okay, so our winters are harsh, and our weather can be a bit unpredictable, but we get all four seasons. Warm summers for swimming in Lake Erie, beautiful falls to enjoy the Metroparks' colorful displays, chilly and snowy winters for the perfect white Christmas, and blooming green springs to bring all that color and vitality back.
Finally, we know why so many dystopia or apocalypse films are set in the Midwest: we might just be the final frontier! Jeff Opperman, Nature Conservancy's senior advisor for sustainable hydropower, suggests that in the United States, Cleveland will be the city that is "most resilient/least vulnerable to climate change." Its geographic and climatic position means it's relatively invulnerable to rising sea levels, increased temperatures, and an increase in natural disasters, and its proximity to the Great Lakes means a sustainable long-term fresh water source. So, while you might think those disaster movies would indicate that there are some weird things about Cleveland, they really show that it's disaster-proof!
William Bostwick, the author of 'The Brewer’s Tale: A History of the World According to Beer', states the Midwest was the original beer capital of the United States. The coasts have dominated the beer game for a while, but the Midwest has snuck up and taken over in recent years. Bostwick asserts Cleveland is currently leading the beer scene in the U.S. Even better is that you can still get an artisan or microbrew draft for under $5!
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13. Playhouse Square is the largest performing arts district outside Manhattan.
The second largest in the country, and the largest outside Manhattan, Playhouse Square hosts some of the best theater, music, comedy, and dance in the country. It sees international acts, home-grown heroes, and traveling Broadway productions.
14. The job market is growing and diversifying every year.
The job market in Cleveland is on the rise. While traditional manufacturing jobs are declining, jobs in other markets are steadily increasing. Each year since the Great Recession there have been more jobs, more job ads, lower unemployment rates, and a more diversified labor market. The health and technology sectors have experienced significant growth, as have the arts and recreation, education, and management.
These are 14 of the reasons Cleveland is the most underrated city in the U.S. What else would you add? Please let us know in the comments section. We are always happy to hear your thoughts!
If you are looking for even more fun things to do in this city, check out Airbnb Experiences. You'll find fun activities for every taste.
