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The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission
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Birding in Montgomery Parks

Bird at Black Hill Regional Park
bird in a tree
Turkey Vulture perched high in a tree
bird in a tree
Turkey Vulture perched high in a tree

Montgomery Parks provides opportunities to see a variety of bird species including songbirds, birds of prey, and waterfowl. Bird-watching is a great way to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors.

Five Places To Bird in Montgomery Parks

Some birds prefer densely wooded habitats, while others prefer meadows or proximity to water. By visiting different habitats you can expand the range of bird species you may encounter.

  1. Black Hill Regional Park has a 505-acre lake that supports numerous species of wintering waterfowl. The lake acts as a “stop over” area as waterfowl (and other birds) migrate during the winter. These specific areas provide essential habitat, water, and food resources so the birds may rest and refuel to continue their long journey.
  2. Lois Y. Green Conservation Park consists of a mix of open space habitat and aquatic resources, such as ponds. These habitats not only support nesting birds in the warmer months but the area also acts as a “stopover” area for migrating waterfowl and other species of birds in the colder months.
  3. Rachel Carson Conservation Park is comprised of high-quality meadows and high-quality oak forests that provide ample food and nesting opportunities in the spring and summer. In addition, the interiors of the forests are large and contiguous, which supports the species of birds that thrive within a forest.
  4. Rock Creek Regional Park contains a mix of high-quality upland forest and quiet water aquatic/emergent habitat to support a variety of bird species all year long.
  5. Wheaton Regional Park includes mature, high-quality, mixed deciduous forest community that supports a variety of nesting birds in the spring and summer.
Group of geese on lake with sunset in the background
brown tailed hawk

person holds his phone that is showing a picture of a bird

Birding for Beginners

New to birding? Here are some tips to get started.

owl at meadowside nature center

Meet Our Resident Raptors

Meadowside Nature Center is home to five raptors.

Go Birding!

Find upcoming birding related programs and classes on Active Montgomery.

baby bird with Downey feathers

What to do if you find a young bird?

Often, young animals are mistaken as abandoned because adults are not seen with them. Please keep this in mind before trying to “rescue” young wildlife that may not need to be rescued at all!  Well-intentioned “rescue efforts” often result in more harm than good. If you observe an animal that you think needs help, and/or is physically injured or sick, please contact a wildlife rehabilitation center first to seek guidance. View a list of Maryland Wildlife Rehabilitation Centers.

Maryland Wildlife Information Line (877) 463-6497 can also be contacted for inquiries and guidance.