Now Flying over Patterson Park

Despite the urban development surrounding it, Patterson Park’s natural history remains strong, acting as a migrant trap for birds with over 223 species recorded since 2009. We may see many neotropical migrants and some residents, including green heron, black-crowned night heron, Swainson’s thrush, wood thrush, black-and-white warbler, common yellowthroat, American redstart, magnolia warbler, scarlet tanager, or rose-breasted grosbeak. 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. The Audubon-Baltimore Program also maintains a flourishing native wetland garden through monthly volunteer events.

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 201 species documented to his “park list.” Bud is a dedicated volunteer with the Friends of Patterson Park, Baltimore City Recreation and Parks’ Forestry Division, Phoenix Wildlife Center, and Audubon. Bud’s mission is to help wildlife thrive among the urban landscape while showcasing nature’s beauty and benefits to park goers of Patterson Park.

• 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.
• All ages welcome.
• Dress according to the weather.
• Bring water, snacks, sunblock, bug spray, and a camera with accessories.
• Bring binoculars and a hand lens or loupe for birding or looking at details, if you have them.
• Bring a first aid kit for your personal use.
• No pets, please.

All events are held rain or shine. If any event is cancelled due to severe weather, you will receive an email or text. If you do not receive a weather-related email, the trip will proceed as planned.

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.