Blue Mash Nature Trail

Maryland · Northeast

Habitat
ForestWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

Entrance Fee

Free

Hours

Open daily, sunrise to sunset

About This Location

Blue Mash Nature Trail is a productive birding destination in Maryland, with 238 species recorded on eBird. This forest and wetland habitat attracts Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, and Wood Duck among many others. Spring and fall migration bring waves of warblers and shorebirds through the area.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Barnacle x Cackling Goose (hybrid)

Branta leucopsis x hutchinsii

3/6/2026Springdale Drive Quarry1 observed

Osprey

Pandion haliaetus

3/6/2026Centennial Park1 observed

Red-necked Grebe

Podiceps grisegena

3/6/2026C&O Canal--Riley's Lock1 observed

Red-flanked Bluetail

Tarsiger cyanurus

3/6/2026Riverbend-Great Falls Parks1 observed

Baltimore Oriole

Icterus galbula

3/6/2026Backyard, Howard County1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

263/6/2026

Mallard

343/6/2026

Green-winged Teal

13/6/2026

Ring-necked Duck

373/6/2026

Mourning Dove

153/6/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

13/6/2026

Belted Kingfisher

13/6/2026

Downy Woodpecker

13/6/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

23/6/2026

Northern Flicker

13/6/2026

Blue Jay

13/6/2026

American Crow

303/6/2026

Fish Crow

1003/6/2026

Northern Mockingbird

13/6/2026

American Robin

193/6/2026

House Sparrow

13/6/2026

House Finch

23/6/2026

Field Sparrow

13/6/2026

White-throated Sparrow

153/6/2026

Song Sparrow

23/6/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.

  2. 2

    Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.

  3. 3

    Visit during mid-May for peak warbler migration.

  4. 4

    Bring insect repellent — wetland areas can have significant mosquito activity, especially in warmer months.

  5. 5

    Waterproof boots are recommended as trails near marshes can be muddy, especially after rain.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Blue Mash Nature Trail for birding?
The best months to visit Blue Mash Nature Trail for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Blue Mash Nature Trail?
Notable species at Blue Mash Nature Trail include Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Mallard, American Black Duck, Tundra Swan, American Woodcock, White-throated Sparrow, Eastern Towhee, Northern Cardinal, Blue Jay, American Crow. The area supports forest, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Blue Mash Nature Trail?
Birding at Blue Mash Nature Trail is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
Is there an entrance fee at Blue Mash Nature Trail?
There is no entrance fee at Blue Mash Nature Trail. Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset.
What amenities are available at Blue Mash Nature Trail?
Blue Mash Nature Trail offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.