TRIP RESCHEDULED FROM 4/1/23. THIS TRIP IS FULL. Half day. We will begin at the Hughes Hollow parking lot in the McKee-Beshers WMA at 7 a.m. We will explore the wetlands and fields of Hughes Hollow. Species to be expected include Red-headed Woodpeckers, Wood Ducks, Blue-winged Teal, and many other marsh-dwellers, as well as lingering winter land birds. Depending on the early spring weather trends, we have a chance for some early warbler species and other early neotropical migrants. Limit: 16. LEADER: Jim Nelson at [email protected].

Morning walk through well-maintained meadow trails, along shrub and tree edges, and into some of the mature deciduous forest. We will be looking for resident species, early migrant songbirds, and raptors. Meet in the large parking lot at 22201 Zion Road, Olney, Md. No restrooms or water at this park. No reservations required. For additional information, contact the LEADER: Mark England at [email protected] or 240-308-4114. Or see park website:  https://montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/rachel-carson-conservation-park/

Every year, hundreds of millions of birds die in the US alone from collisions with glass. Birds strike glass as they fly toward reflections of sky or vegetation or as they try to reach habitat seen through glass. Unfortunately, advances in technology that increase the use of glass curtain walls and other large glass features also increase the rate of bird mortality. However, we now have materials that can make buildings safe for birds without sacrificing light, appearance, or view clarity. In 2011, San Francisco became the first US city to require bird-friendly design for some new construction. Since then, over 30 jurisdictions at levels from state to town—notably New York City in 2019—have legislated bird-friendly construction, and more are pending. Christine will discuss some of the latest solutions, including techniques for evaluating the relative threat level of different materials. 

THIS TRIP IS FULL. WAITLIST ONLY. Come discover this lovely park during spring migration. Lots of migrants pass through, including many warblers. Meet in the parking lot at 7:30 a.m. Limit: 16. LEADER: Emily Huang at [email protected].

CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER. No reservations needed!  We’ll be looking for early warblers, orioles and vireo's as we head upstream and back during a two hour walk. Easy level walking.  Meet at the Pennyfield parking lot at 7 am.   LEADER: Dave Powell [email protected]

CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER. Half day. We will be looking for warblers and other migrants on the Wilson Mill Trail. Possible Kentucky Warbler. Limit: 8. LEADER: Gemma Radko at [email protected].

Tune up your ears as we listen for and learn to identify the songs and calls of migrant and local breeding birds. The trip will be geared to new birders but all are welcome. Meet at 7 a.m. at the parking lot at Hughes Hollow. Limit: 8. LEADER: Paul Woodward at [email protected].