Lake birding habitat

Oxbow Lake

Maryland · Northeast

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Oxbow Lake is a productive birding destination in Maryland, with 211 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Tundra Swan, and Northern Shoveler 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

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

17/21/2026

House Sparrow

17/21/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

17/20/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

17/20/2026

American Robin

17/20/2026

Northern Cardinal

17/20/2026

Mourning Dove

17/20/2026

Tufted Titmouse

37/20/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

17/20/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

17/20/2026

American Goldfinch

17/20/2026

Chipping Sparrow

17/20/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

17/19/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

17/19/2026

Blue Jay

17/19/2026

Carolina Wren

27/19/2026

House Finch

17/19/2026

Canada Goose

27/19/2026

Wood Duck

67/19/2026

Mallard

27/19/2026

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 Oxbow Lake for birding?
The best months to visit Oxbow Lake for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Oxbow Lake?
Notable species at Oxbow Lake include Canada Goose, Tundra Swan, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, Mallard. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Oxbow Lake?
Birding at Oxbow Lake is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Oxbow Lake?
Oxbow Lake offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.