Have you taken a stroll through the best backyard in Baltimore? That would be Patterson Park, frequently cited as one of the best outdoor experiences in the city. Join us to explore the park from two angles: its history, with a presentation from Baltimore Heritage Tours, and its natural history with Bud Poole, a native tree and birding volunteer with Friends of Patterson Park.
Our Heritage Tour will focus on the park’s almost two-hundred-year-old history, describing its consistent use that ranges from the War of 1812 to a beef market to a 137-acre park. In spite of the area’s development, the natural history of Patterson Park remains strong, acting as a migrant trap for birds, with over 223 species recorded since 2009. We may see both resident birds and lingering migrants, including green heron, black-crowned night heron, red-winged blackbird, Cooper’s hawk, Eastern kingbird, great crested flycatcher, and American robin. The park is ranked in the top 100 hotspots in Maryland, per species, according to eBird.org.
This vibrant bird community is sustained through the efforts of native tree plantings and existing tree maintenance managed by the Friends of Patterson Park and City Forestry. Our birding leader, Bud Poole, volunteers with the Friends group and is excited to share how bringing in native species of trees and plants sustains and grows the park’s bird diversity. Bud is a nearby resident and frequent birder, with a total of 192 species in Patterson Park. He’s set his goal to find 200 species.
- Our meeting location can be found in your registration confirmation email when payment is complete.
- Watch for additional details in a welcome email a few days before the date.
- Dress according to the weather. Layers of clothing work best. Include a hat for sun protection or warmth, depending on the season.
- Bring binoculars, if you have them.
- Bring a first aid kit for your personal use.
- No pets, please.
Payment and Cancellation Policy: Payment is due online at the time of registration. Cancellations made seven or more days in advance of the event will receive a refund minus a 5% processing fee. Cancellations made within seven days of the event will not receive a refund. Events and field trips with fees of $10 or less are not refundable at any time unless canceled by NHSM. NHSM retains the right to update or change these requirements at any time.
For questions, please email Jayne at JAsh@marylandnature.org.
