a blue and white bird sitting on top of a green bush

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

Mississippi Kite

Ictinia mississippiensis

7/20/2026Welsh Park, Rockville1 observed

Mute Swan

Cygnus olor

7/19/2026Gunners Lake1 observed

Northern Harrier

Circus hudsonius

7/14/2026Mount Pleasant Farm - Howard County Conservancy1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

27/20/2026

Mourning Dove

37/20/2026

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

17/20/2026

Chimney Swift

27/20/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

17/20/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

37/20/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

17/20/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

17/20/2026

American Crow

27/20/2026

Tufted Titmouse

17/20/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

17/20/2026

Carolina Wren

27/20/2026

Gray Catbird

27/20/2026

Eastern Bluebird

47/20/2026

American Robin

27/20/2026

American Goldfinch

27/20/2026

Eastern Towhee

27/20/2026

Orchard Oriole

17/20/2026

Common Yellowthroat

27/20/2026

Northern Cardinal

57/20/2026

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.