Lake birding habitat

Lake Elkhorn

Maryland · Northeast

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Lake Elkhorn is a productive birding destination in Maryland, with 218 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Ring-necked Duck, Tufted Titmouse, and Northern Mockingbird 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

Broad-winged Hawk

Buteo platypterus

7/21/2026Rock Creek Park--Beach Drive west of Kensington Parkway1 observed

Mississippi Kite

Ictinia mississippiensis

7/21/2026stakeout Mississippi Kite, NE DC (2025)2 observed

White-throated Sparrow

Zonotrichia albicollis

7/21/2026Masonville Cove1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

407/16/2026

Mallard

87/16/2026

Great Blue Heron

17/16/2026

Belted Kingfisher

27/16/2026

Blue Jay

27/16/2026

American Crow

37/16/2026

Fish Crow

27/16/2026

House Finch

37/16/2026

American Goldfinch

27/16/2026

Song Sparrow

47/16/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

57/16/2026

Common Yellowthroat

37/16/2026

Northern Cardinal

67/16/2026

Green Heron

7/15/2026

Osprey

7/15/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

7/15/2026

Downy Woodpecker

7/15/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

7/15/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

7/15/2026

Tufted Titmouse

7/15/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  3. 3

    Visit during mid-May for peak warbler migration.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Lake Elkhorn for birding?
The best months to visit Lake Elkhorn for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Lake Elkhorn?
Notable species at Lake Elkhorn include Ring-necked Duck, Tufted Titmouse, Northern Mockingbird, House Sparrow, House Finch. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Lake Elkhorn?
Birding at Lake Elkhorn is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Lake Elkhorn?
Lake Elkhorn offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.