C&O Canal - North Branch

Maryland · Northeast

Habitat
ForestWetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

C&O Canal - North Branch is a productive birding destination in Maryland, with 250 species recorded on eBird. This forest and wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Common Goldeneye 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

Trumpeter Swan

Cygnus buccinator

3/6/2026Rocky Gap SP2 observed

Merlin

Falco columbarius

3/1/2026Barton Park Dr. (Allegany Co.)1 observed

Common Raven

Corvus corax

2/20/2026Lake Gordon boat ramp1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

52/21/2026

Mallard

52/21/2026

Common Goldeneye

12/21/2026

Common Merganser

52/21/2026

Mourning Dove

42/21/2026

Turkey Vulture

12/21/2026

Bald Eagle

12/21/2026

Downy Woodpecker

12/21/2026

Northern Flicker

12/21/2026

American Kestrel

12/21/2026

Blue Jay

22/21/2026

American Crow

12/21/2026

Carolina Wren

12/21/2026

European Starling

32/21/2026

Northern Mockingbird

12/21/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

62/21/2026

Song Sparrow

62/21/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

12/21/2026

Northern Cardinal

12/21/2026

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit C&O Canal - North Branch for birding?
The best months to visit C&O Canal - North Branch for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at C&O Canal - North Branch?
Notable species at C&O Canal - North Branch include Canada Goose, Mallard, Common Goldeneye, Common Merganser, Mourning Dove. The area supports forest, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at C&O Canal - North Branch?
Birding at C&O Canal - North Branch is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at C&O Canal - North Branch?
C&O Canal - North Branch offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.