August 23, 2008 -- From June 13-22, 2008, volunteers from the Greater Akron Audubon Society conducted their annual breeding bird census for Summit County, recording the highest number of birds (33,190) in the 31-year history of the census. A total of 129 species were seen or heard in widely varying habitat during the 10-day count.

Local volunteers Dwight and Ann Chasar surveyed the Hudson area and spent nearly three hours roaming Laurel Lake's private 150-acre property. Here the Sagamore Hills couple identified 35 species of birds, including Cooper’s Hawk, Great Blue Heron, Red-bellied and Downy Woodpecker, Great Crested Flycatcher, Red-eyed Vireo, Gray Catbird, Cedar Waxwing, Eastern Towhee, Swamp Sparrow, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting and many more.

In recent years, the Chasars say, they have also observed Red-shouldered Hawks and Barred Owls at Laurel Lake, indicating that they were probably nesting in the area.

"It’s getting more difficult to find large tracts of undeveloped land in Summit County," says Ann Chasar. "We’re so glad we can still have access to Laurel Lake."

Nearly half of Laurel Lake's acreage remains in its natural state, given over to forest, wetlands and lakes. In 2007 the retirement community was designated a certified wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation.

To learn more about the Greater Akron Audubon Society or volunteer for the next bird census, call the Chasars at 330-467-3664 or visit www.akronaudubon.org. 

Laurel Lake is the smart lifestyle choice for adults 62+ who wish to continue leading full, active lives filled with a variety of interests and aspirations, such as volunteering, work, travel, fitness, cultural and lifelong learning pursuits. To learn more about this not-for-profit continuing care retirement community offering multiple home styles within 150 scenic acres in Hudson, call 1-866-650-2100 or visit www.laurellake.org .