A conservative estimate of birds annually killed
by collision is 100 million. Some experts think the
number is higher by many millions more. This
has been going on for a long time. A 1991 report
by Dr. Daniel Klem, who has been studying the
bird and glass issues for the last 30 years, states
that 333 Exxon Valdez spills would be necessary
to kill 100 million birds. Research shows that collisions
with buildings are the biggest killer of birds
in the world. Along with all the other challenges
facing birds, it is no wonder bird populations are
plummeting.
Windows, glass walkthrough bridges, and allglass
buildings pose year-round threats to birds.
Significant among these threats are:
Thanks to Chicago, New York, and Toronto's bird collision
reduction programs, awareness of the impact
of manmade structures on bird populations is
growing, as it should: higher songbird populations
have been linked to trees growing larger, since
birds keep pest populations in check. With Baltimore
looking to significantly increase its tree canopy
in the coming decades, ensuring safe structures
for birds goes hand in hand with increasing
the city's tree canopy. Fatal Light Awareness Program
(FLAP-www.flap.org), the pioneer nonprofit
on this issue, continues to work to reduce bird
mortality in Toronto. The bird casualties counter
on their website is at over 42,000 birds.
Karen Cotton is the American Bird Conservancy's
new Bird Collisions Campaign Manager. She has
been invaluable in guiding the BBC's work on how
to address the issue locally. We are fortunate to
have her located in nearby Washington, D.C.
and are grateful for her attendance at a recent
meeting with a local conservation organization
currently dealing with bird strikes at their facility.
In her position, she is working aggressively
to raise awareness on the issue, establishing
Lights-Out programs throughout the nation, and
getting existing bird-friendly building guidelines
and credits written into the U.S. Green Building
Council's LEED certification program. Currently
the U.S. Green Building Council certification
program doesn't give any "LEED credits" for
bird-friendly building or design, and a search of
"bird friendly" on the Council's website yields just
two results, neither of which directly addresses
how to avoid birds colliding with buildings. This
needs to change to effectively stop the slaughter
of millions of birds at "green" buildings.
The literature on daytime window collision reduction
reports that feasible solutions need to
provide for a transparent window while at the
same time making sure birds see the solid surface
ahead. Progress is being made -- the U.S.
Postal Service has etched the glass of its Morgan
Mail processing building in Manhattan so
that the birds will be aware of the glass after
concerned parties at NYC Audubon documented
extremely high bird mortality rates at the structure.
Opportunities to develop more post-construction
solutions to daytime collisions exist.
The National Zoo in Washington found a beautiful
solution, but not without first trying stickers
that didn't adhere as well as needed to keep the
glass aesthetically pleasing. They kept looking
for a solution however, and display some on
their website. To have a look at their solution to
their bird collision problem at zoo displays, click here.
When birds migrate at night in the spring and
fall, they can become disoriented by light sources
and sometimes fly continuously around light
until they drop from exhaustion.
Reducing nighttime collisions is easier
than reducing daytime window collisions. Some
buildings have both reduced their energy bill and
the number of nighttime collisions by 80% just by
turning their lights off at night during peak migration
months. This is a win-win for both building
managers and for birds.
The current energy crisis offers us a real opportunity
to focus on the twin goals of saving energy
and birds by promoting Lights Out programs locally.
The Baltimore Bird Club is spearheading such a
project this fall. Won't you join us as we work with
the American Bird Conservatory and other local organizations
to make Baltimore safer for the migrating
birds we all love to spend our time watching.
If you're interested please email me at Volunteers can participate in many
ways - monitoring bird strikes, help developing
brochures, talking with building managers, architects
and others in a position to advance change,
rescuing and collecting birds from downtown, and
transporting birds to a local licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
If you think watching birds is satisfying,
imagine the satisfaction of helping to save them
from unnecessary deaths in Baltimore!
Websites for other cities:
Apr 8
- Lake Roland
- This was a great day for the 11 birders who braved the dark
weather. Highlights included a pair of Blue-winged Teal, a female
Green-winged Teal, a perched Merlin, 5 species of woodpeckers
including close-up views of 2 male Pileated Woodpeckers
manuevering up and down tree trunk, some Palm Warblers, and a
Winter Wren. The Tufted Titmouse, Eastern Phoebes, and Whitethroated
Sparrows 49. 11 participants. Leader: Mary Chetelat.
Apr 12 - Smith Island - While we were out on the roads toward the
marsh, we came across a Rusty Blackbird and then near a power
utility station, the weather closed in, so we took shelter under an
open roof at the utility. While experiencing a thunderstorm with
rain showers, we shared the experience with a Little Blue Heron,
a Clapper Rail, and a Swamp Sparrow. No, they weren't under the
roof with us, but were seen nearby. When the weather cleared, we
resumed birding. Many rails calling, also meadowlarks too. One
small group saw a photograph a Cattle Egret. During the cruise,
we saw over 100 gannets. Back on mainland, few saw a Eared
Grebe. When group split, some heard several warbler species.
Overall, everyone have a great day despite the thunderstorms. 66
species. 35 participants. Leaders: Kevin Graff & Pete Webb.
Apr 12 - Hampton NHS - Highlight of the day was a kestrel carrying
off a small snake. 36 species. 12 participants. Leader: Gail
Frantz.
Apr 15 - Lake Roland - Not many warblers, but glorious to behold.
Great views of Palm, Parula and Yellow-rumped Warblers
in full color. Blue-headed Vireo was also stunning. When we sat
at the picnic bench to do our final list we found a stone with the
words "Brown Creeper" enigmatically written on it! 51 species.
16 participants. Leader: Joan Cwi.
Apr 19 - Hampton NHS - 2 bluebird boxes inhabited side by side
by house sparrows in one and bluebirds in the other. Two bluebirds
trying to distract house sparrows from the two boxes. We
removed as much of the house sparrow nesting material as possible.
According to one of the our participants, no one monitors
the boxes. There seems to be about 12 around the property. 30
species. 7 participants. Leader: Joy Wheeler.
Apr 20 - Granite Area - The BBC walk in the Granite Area of
Patapsco Valley State was pretty good considering the periodic
showers, difficult lighting conditions and earlier date this year.
Six birders braved the muddy trails to find the following highlights:
3 Prairie Warblers, 2 Yellow-throated Warblers (by song),
2 Louisiana Waterthrush, 9 Northern Parula, 17 Myrtle Warbler,
3 yellow Palm Warbler, 1 Black-and-white Warbler and 2 Ovenbird.
We also had a Pileated Woodpecker at close range. 49 species.
6 participants. Leader: Keith Eric Costley.
Apr 22 - Lake Roland - Spring Migration is underway! The group
either saw or heard 5 species of warblers and enjoyed long looks
at the breeding plumage Black-crowned Night Heron. 54 species.
18 participants. Leader: Debbie Terry.
Apr 26 - Hampton NHS - Our most unusual bird for this date
was a Red-breasted Nuthatch. Bird most enjoyed were 2 beautiful
male Baltimore Orioles flitting in the trees around the Hampton
Mansion. 35 species. 8 participants. Leader: Debbie Terry.
Apr 26 - Marriottsville Rd. - What started as a pleasant walk ended
rather hot and humid. Eleven warblers were noted. All got a
look at the target bird, the Yellow-throated; some heard a distant
Prairie; a few had brief looks at the Worm-eating; Parulas seemed
everywhere and most got good looks at them; heard but not seen
were BT Green and Blue-winged; heard but generally not seen
were Pine and Black-and-white and the Ovenbird. Well heard
and seen by most: the Louisiana Waterthrush; seen by some: an
unexpected Northern Waterthrush. Other nice sightings: Green
Heron, Osprey, Spotted Sandpiper, GH Owl, YT & BH Vireos,
Wood Thrush and Baltimore Oriole. Scarlet Tanager was heard
by most, but only one heard a kingbird. Lots of nice wild flowers
were in bloom. A demonstrative Black Rat Snake and a small,
shy Ringneck Snake were also seen. 63 species. 9 participants.
Leader: Paul Noell.
Apr 26 - Patterson Park - It was a beautiful sunny and breezy
morning with a good variety of migrants present including large
numbers of Chipping and White-throated Sparrows, Blue Jays in
good numbers all morning. A flyby Solitary Sandpiper. 41 species. 6 participants. Leader: David Curson.
Apr 27 - Druid Hill Park - Highlight was the Blue-winged Warbler
in the woods behind the zoo. 7 warbler species including Bluewinged,
Parula, Yellow, Black-throated Green, Palm, Black-and white
and Common Yellowthroat. Overcast and damp with briefly light
rain. 6 participants. Leader: Bryce Butler.
Apr 27 - Cherry Hill Park - Joint trip with Baltimore and Anne
Arundel Bird Clubs. We flushed a group of three pheasants (1
male, 2 females) and heard two others. Other highlights included:
Northern Harrier, Savannah Sparrow, Swamp Sparrows, Orchard
Orioles, many Yellow Warblers and 4 Caspian Terns. 43 species.
8 participants. Leader: David Walbeck.
Apr 27 - Swift Watch at Conservatory - Because of early darkness,
swifts started entering very early. First in at 640pm, last in
at 820pm, total about 980. Trip was advertised in Roland Park
Country School's Kaleidoscope program, and most attends came
after reading it there. 40 participants. Leader: Joan Cwi & Carol
Schreter.
Apr 29 - Lake Roland - Both Orchard and Baltimore Orioles -
large numbers. And great view of Chestnut-sided Warbler. Also
two Great Egrets. 66 species including 11 warblers. 18 participants.
Leader: Debbie Terry.
May 3 - Hampton NHS - Highlight of the day were Goldencrowned
Kinglet, Yellow, Yellow-rumped and Redstart. 39 species.
9 participants. Leader: Ben Poscover.
May 4 - Patuxent North Tract - BBC's field trip to the North Tract
of Patuxent NWR featured mainly residents rather than migrants.
Many species chose to remain heard-only, but some sightings
were quite decent but here are a few highlights. Summer Tanagers
were unusually numerous and vocal with one providing such
a good look early on that we did not bother to look for the others.
We had 16 species of warbler in the refuge, including one Prothonotary,*
heard but not seen behind New Marsh; a well-seen
Worm-eating warbler; LOTS of Redstarts, LOTS of Ovenbirds,
lots of Prairies, and a few Chats. We had one great look at a Blue
Grosbeak. Also 3 well-seen Savannah Sparrows. Also, we were
amazed at the numerous Carolina Saddlebag dragonflies. Cricket
frogs were also very vocal in the various ponds. *The Bailey
Bridge area is still closed, like last year. That's unfortunate since
it is one of the best areas for Prothonotaries and other species.
species. 2 participants. Leader: Steve Sanford.
May 6 - Lake Roland - It was a busy day with scores of birds.
Killer look at Prothonotary, good look at Worm-eating and a few
seen a colorful male Blackburnin Warbler way up caused a pain
in the neck after about 10-15 minutes looking up. The mudflats
near old boat ramp was full of shorebirds including Killdeer,
Lesser Yellowlegs, Solitary, Spotted, and Least Sandpipers. Few
of us saw the Barred Owl flying away. 75 species including 14
warblers. 17 participants. Leader: Kevin Graff.
May 13 - Lake Roland - The Black-crowned Night Heron finally
flew regally in revue, against a dramatic, tumultuous spillway
waterfall, following heavy rains of the previous day. The Yellowcrowned
cousin was conspicuous by its absence. Along the upper
lake, the Osprey circled supreme. The Great Blue Heron was
joined by its regal cousin, the Great Egret. A scattering of Solitary
and Spotted Sandpipers were joined by a lone Least Sandpiper.
Other nice sightings: Pileated Woodpecker; Ruby-throated Hummingbird;
kingfisher; Acadian Flycatcher; Veery; Swainson's
Thrush; and both orioles. A late-singing White-throated Sparrow
was noted. Of 11 warblers notable were: Magnolia, BT Blue,
Redstart, Prothonotary, Yellow, Ovenbird, Northern Waterthrush
and Canada. We were lustily serenaded by a no. of the warblers.
Rounding it out were Scarlat Tanager, Yellow-throated Vireo and
an obliging jamble of laid-back Cedar Waxwings. 74 species. 19
participants. Leader: Paul Noell.
May 17 - Hampton NHS - Highlights of this NPS/BBC's walk included
two warblers (Blackpoll Warbler and American Redstart);
a flyby Belted Kingfisher; and close-up viewing of a pair Baltimore
Orioles, a Rose-breasted Grosbeak and Warbling Vireo. 49
species. 8 participants. Leader: Keith Eric Costley.
May 18 - Owings Mills Mall Wetlands - Highlights of this BBC's
walk included an Olive-sided Flycatcher; eight warblers species
(Northern Parula, Yellow Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler,
Blackpoll Warbler, American Redstart, Northern Waterthrush,
Common Yellowthroat, Canada Warbler); great looks at Baltimore
and Orchard Orioles; and a little bit of sunshine. 65 species.
11 participants. Leader: Keith Eric Costley.
May 20 - Lake Roland - Of the eight species of warblers, notable
were the Magnolia, Chestnut-sided, Blackpoll and Canada.
On good view for all were male and female Baltimore Oriole,
adult and first year Orchard Oriole. A pair of DC Cormorants
were sighted briefly overhead, as was a long GB Heron. There
were several BC NIght Herons, but the YC NIght Herons were
not in evidence. Several pairs of Canada Geese were seen with
two to three goslings each. A lone RT Hummer, a single Swainson's
Thrush and a nice group of Cedar Waxwings were welcome
sights. Notably missing were Downy Woodpecker, Kingbird,
Scarlet Tanager, Indigo Bunting and any vultures, hawks, etc. Six
hardy souls proved to be good "mudders" in traversing decidedly
watery and squishy trails. 59 species. 6 participants. Leader: Peter
Lev.
May 24 - Hampton NHS - Interesting birds seen/heard including
one Eastern Screech-Owl, 2 flyover nighthawks, one Bay-breasted
Warbler and 2 Baltimore Orioles. 40 species. 13 participants.
Leader: Jim Peters.
May 27 - Lake Roland - It was nice to see 6 or 7 Green Herons
flying over, calling and then on a branch where we could see one
well with out binocs. It was a treat to hear a Veery, singing loudly
and beautifully. What a lovely sound. Had 6 warblers, but the
highlight of the day was three baby Barred owls nice and round
and fluffy, their eyes blacks and staring. Everybody had good
looks at these birds. 57 species. 10 participants. Leader: Ruth
Culbertson.
Jun 8 - Soldiers Delight - Highlights of the BBC field trip at Soldiers
Delight NEA included: an extended look at a male Summer
Tanager singing along the Red Trail; an adult barred owl; watching
a trio Hairy Woodpeckers dance around the upper branches
of an Oak; seeing a Brown Thrasher preening after a bath in the
Red Run and watching a pair of Great-crested Flycatchers building
a nest. We heard several warbler species singing on territory
- Hooded, Northern Parula, Black-and-white, Prairie and Pine,
Ovenbird and Yellow-breasted Chat. In addition, we saw a pair
of Eastern Bluebirds and male Scarlet Tanager. 47 species. 8 participants.
Leader: Keith Eric Costley.
Jun 21 - Grantie Area - Highlights of the BBC's walk in the
Granite area [Woodstock] of Patapsco Valley State Park included
finding newly fledged young of the Louisiana Waterthrush and
Chipping Sparrow. Warblers found were Pine Warbler, Prairie
Warbler, Northern Parula, American Redstart and Ovenbird. We
also enjoyed watching a several Scarlet Tanagers, Indigo Bunting
and Field Sparrow singing on territory. During one of the mornings
quieter moments Dan's alarm call turned our attention to
an adult Bald Eagle flying low over river. Later in the afternoon,
we added a nice Yellow-billed Cuckoo sighting and couple of
Cooper's Hawks. 62 species. 7 participants. Leader: Keith Eric
Costley.
BBC Officers, Directors, Committees
President Peter Webb
Vice President David Thorndill
Treasurer Dick Krejci
Recording Secretary Paula Schugam
BBC Directors Joan Cwi
Kevin Graff
Mark LinardiState Directors Joan Cwi
John Landers
Roberta RossMembership Co-chairs Catherine Bishop
Dot GustafsonCommittees
Conservation Committee Co-chairs
Carol Schreter
Joan CwiMembers Bryce Butler
Wendy Olsson
Paula
Schugam
Joan Hellman
Dixie MullineauxCylburn Bird Exhibits and Outreach
Chair Patsy Perlman
Member Joy Wheeler
Dorothy Blake Martin Fund Karen Morley
Field Trips Committee Peter Webb
Kevin GraffHospitality Kevin Graff
Lectures David Curson
Scholarship David Curson
Representative to MOS Sanctuary Committee
Brent Byers
Representative to Natural History Society
Joe Lewandowski
Publicity vacant
Chip Notes Editor Bryce Butler
Field Trip Reports Kevin Graff Back to Table of Contents
Dues are Due
J. Catherine Bishop
6111 Bellona Ave
Baltimore, MD 21212
(410) 435-9569
Back to Table of Contents
Editor's Note
Back to Table of Contents
Fatal Attraction: Birds and Glass
by Wendy Olsson
Baltimore kills numerous birds. Since finding that
first American Woodcock, I've seen 23 more, a
dead Baltimore Oriole near the tallest building in
Baltimore, 28 Ovenbirds, and a host of other species.
I watched as a Common Yellowthroat stood
over the dead body of a Common Yellowthroat of
the opposite sex. The sparse and sporadic data
from concerned Baltimoreans is only the tip of the
iceberg. Species hardest hit include American
Woodcocks, Common Yellowthroats, Ovenbirds,
Yellow-billed Cuckoos, and White-throated Sparrows.
With development of high-rises and new all-glass
"green" buildings (is a building really green
if it's lethal to birds?), Baltimore will become more
perilous to both migrant and resident birds alike.Back to Table of Contents
Field Trip Reports
Compiled by Kevin Graff
Back to Table of Contents
Back Yard Birding and Beyond |
 |
The following Wednesday February 20 there was more to be ecstatic about. A peregrine falcon was standing on the top of the same dead tree, obviously feeding on some prey. I watched it 45 minutes hoping to see it fly its distinctive falcon flight, but could not invest any more time on it. It had stopped feeding and probably was too full to fly. Its profile, its coloring (faint in poor light) and its behavior added up to peregrine falcon to me. And 5 days later flying down from the tree top this time with the characteristic peregrine falcon flight there it was again.
On the first day we got an early start from the motel in Franklin, TN and got on the north end of the Parkway. The highlight of the day came when we stopped at Baker Bluff Overlook after 40 miles and found a tree full of Rose-breasted Grosbeaks. A bit further was the delightful Jackson Falls Trail, which was good for birds and wildflowers. We heard a number of birds, including Scarlet Tanagers, on the trail in the Devils Backbone Natural Area. After lunch in the town of Hohenwald, we returned to the Trace and spent several hours at the Meriwether Lewis Site, birding the trails and picnic areas and looking at the historical exhibits. Then it was back to Hohenwald for the night. On the second day we finished the Tennessee and Alabama sections of the Trace. The highlight of the day was the Rock Spring Trail in Alabama, with its classic beaver pond. Here we found the first Indigo Bunting of the trip. The trail at the Parkway Visitor Center in Tupelo, MS was pleasant but not very productive for birds in midafternoon.
On the third day we drove about 15 miles from the motel in Tupelo and then did a short drive off the Trace to Davis Lake, a US Forest Service recreation area. Here we found more new birds for the trip -- Red-headed Woodpeckers, Kingbirds, Chimney Swifts, Great Blue Herons, and a Pewee. Later in the day we walked on four short trails and then spent the night in Kosciusko, MS. On the fourth day we really enjoyed the Cypress Swamp Trail where we found a Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, but were a bit disappointed not to find any Prothonotary Warblers. The highlights of the day were finding a flock of about 50 Cedar Waxwings near the motel in Jackson, MS, and finding a Summer Tanager at one of the historic stops just north of Jackson. On the last day we walked several short trails, and found a Yellow-throated Warbler outside a ranger station where we had stopped for information. After finishing the Trace we spent the night outside Natchez .
AUG 20 (Wed) 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. EVENING WALKS AT FORT McHENRY Cancelled in rain, snow, sleet, fog, etc. Leader: Jim Peters, (410) 429-0966.
AUG 26 (Tue) 8:30 a.m. LAKE ROLAND (ROBERT E. LEE PARK). First in a series of weekly walks to follow the progress of Fall Migration. Habitats include woods, lake, streams and marsh. This park has an impressive bird list, including songbirds, herons, shorebirds and raptors. Leader: Patsy Perlman (410) 466-3998 or
AUG 27 (Wed) 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. EVENING WALKS AT FORT McHENRY Automatically cancelled in rain, fog, etc. Park on Wallace Street. Leader: Jim Peters, (410) 429-0966.
AUG 31 (Sun) 8:30 a.m. CYLBURN SELF-GUIDED WALK. First in a series of casual fall walks. Meet at the Mansion's front porch on Sunday mornings for easy birding in Cylburn's gardens and urban forest. Beginning Birders Welcome. Expect to find a variety of migrant and resident birds. No designated leader. Coordinator: Joe Lewandowski, (410) 358-7834 or
SEP 2 (Tue) 8:30 a.m. LAKE ROLAND (ROBERT E. LEE PARK). One in a series of weekly walks to follow the progress of Fall Migration. Habitats include woods, lake, streams and marsh. This park has an impressive bird list, including songbirds, herons, shorebirds and raptors. Leader: Joan Cwi, (410) 467-5352 or
SEP 2 (Tue) 7:30 p.m. TUESDAY EVENING LECTURE AT CYLBURN. First in a series of monthly feature presentations and slide shows on the first Tuesday of each month except 2nd Tuesday in November (to make room for Election Day) and 2nd Sunday dinner in January. Tonight: "The Path Taken By An Avian Researcher". Dr Kim Derrickson, Professor of Biology at Loyola College, talks about doing bird research on Wood Thrushes in Maryland, Dusky Antbirds in the Neotropics, and other fascinating bird subjects. Doors open at 7:30 pm for socializing and snacks, show starts about 7:45 or 8:00 p.m.
SEP 3 (Wed) 8:00 a.m. FIRST WEDNESDAYS AT FORT McHENRY Monthly survey of bird activity at the wetland. Telescope can be useful. Automatically cancelled in bad weather (rain, sleet, snow, fog, etc.). Leader: Mary Chetelat, (410) 665-0769.
SEP 3 (Wed) 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. EVENING WALKS AT FORT McHENRY Automatically cancelled in rain, fog, etc. Park on Wallace Street.
SEP 6 (Sat) 8:00 a.m. CROMWELL VALLEY PARK.Diverse habitat that includes stream, woods and fields. Expect to see a variety of resident and migrant birds. Leader: Kevin Graff, (410) 557-2456 or
SEP 7 (Sun) 8:30 a.m. CYLBURN SELF-GUIDED WALK. Meet at Mansion's front porch on Sunday mornings for easy birding in Cylburn's gardens and urban forest. Beginning Birders Welcome. Expect to find a variety of migrant and resident birds. No designated leader. Coordinator: Joe Lewandowski, (410) 358-7834 or SEP 9 (Tue) 8:30 a.m. LAKE ROLAND (ROBERT E. LEE PARK). One in a series of weekly walks to follow the progress of Fall Migration. Habitats include woods, lake, streams and marsh. This park has an impressive bird list, including songbirds, herons, shorebirds and raptors.Leader: Debbie Terry (410) 252-8771 or
SEP 10 (Wed) 9:30 a.m. GREENMOUNT CEMETERY, 1501 GREENMOUNT AVE The first of two cemetery walks to investigate bird life in Baltimore City. These pockets of green space are relatively undisturbed and unexplored. Leader: Joy Wheeler, (410) 825-1204
SEP 10 (Wed) 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. EVENING WALKS AT FORT McHENRY Automatically cancelled in rain, fog, etc. Park on Wallace Street.
SEP 14 (Sun) 8:30 a.m. CYLBURN SELF-GUIDED WALK. One in a series of casual fall walks. Meet at the Mansion's front porch on Sunday mornings for easy birding in Cylburn's gardens and urban forest. Beginning Birders Welcome. Expect to find a variety of migrant and resident birds. No designated leader. Coordinator: Joe Lewandowski, (410) 358-7834 or
SEP 14 (Sun) 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. CHIMNEY SWIFTS AT DUSK, DRUID HILL PARK CONSERVATORY (GREENHOUSE) Join the BBC SwiftWatch Team for "Swift Night Out" as Chimney Swifts pour into the Conservatory chimney. Swifts are counted and results, nationwide, are listed at www.chimneyswifts.org. Baltimore has some of the highest counts in the nation. Come at 7:15 if the weather is cloudy or gray.
SEP 16 (Tue) 8:30 a.m. LAKE ROLAND (ROBERT E. LEE PARK). One in a series of weekly walks to follow the progress of Fall Migration. Habitats include woods, lake, streams and marsh. This park has an impressive bird list, including songbirds, herons, shorebirds and raptors. Leader: Ruth Culbertson, (410) 825-1379.
SEP 16 (Tue) 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. Rain date FOR CHIMNEY SWIFTS AT DUSK, DRUID HILL PARK CONSERVATORY (GREENHOUSE) See Sep 14, above.
SEP 17 (Wed) 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. EVENING WALKS AT FORT McHENRY Automatically cancelled in rain, fog, etc. Park on Wallace Street.
SEP 20 (Sat) BALTIMORE FALL COUNT We will tally all birds seen within the City and County during this calendar day. Birders of all levels of experience are welcome and urged to participate. To avoid duplication of counting, contact coordinator Debbie Terry, (410) 252-8771 or , for assignment.
SEP 20 (Sat) 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. SATURDAY MONITORING WALKS AT FORT McHENRY A continuing survey of bird activity at the Fort.
SEP 21 (Sun) 8:30 a.m. CYLBURN SELF-GUIDED WALK. Meet at Mansion's front porch on Sunday mornings for easy birding in Cylburn's gardens and urban forest. Beginning Birders Welcome. Coordinator: Joe Lewandowski, (410) 358-7834 or
SEP 23 (Tue) 8:30 a.m. LAKE ROLAND (ROBERT E. LEE PARK). One in a series of weekly walks to follow the progress of Fall Migration. Habitats include woods, lake, streams and marsh. This park has an impressive bird list, including songbirds, herons, shorebirds and raptors. Leader: Dot Gustafson, (410) 584-9509 or
SEP 28 (Sun) 8:30 a.m. CYLBURN SELF-GUIDED WALK. Meet at Mansion's front porch on Sunday mornings for easy birding in Cylburn's gardens and urban forest. Beginning Birders Welcome. Expect to find a variety of migrant and resident birds. No designated leader. Coordinator: Joe Lewandowski, (410) 358-7834 or
SEP 30 (Tue) 8:30 a.m. LAKE ROLAND (ROBERT E. LEE PARK). One in a series of weekly walks to follow the progress of Fall Migration. Habitats include woods, lake, streams and marsh. This park has an impressive bird list, including songbirds, herons, shorebirds and raptors. Leader: Matilda Weiss, (410) 337-2732.
To Baltimore Bird Club Home Page
August-September Field Trips Schedule
AUGUST 2008.
*Directions to Nursery Road/Hammonds Ferry Road Park & Ride. Take I-695 Beltway exit 8, (not exit 8A which goes to the tunnel). From outer loop (southbound), ramp leads to parking lot across Hammonds Ferry Road. From inner loop (northbound), follow ramp right onto Fairview, turn right on Nursery Road, right on Hammonds Ferry Road, then left at next light into Park & Ride lot.
*Directions to Bombay Hook NWR, Delaware Visitor Center. From Bay Bridge follow Rt 301 north about 34 miles. Turn right at Rt 300. Travel 19 miles to Kenton, DE. Turn right at Rt 42, go 8 miles to Leipsic. Left onto Rt 9, go 1.5 miles to inconspicuous Bombay Hook marker on right. Turn right, go to Visitor Center lot at end. Drive time from Bay Bridge about 1.5 hours.
*Directions to Fort McHenry. From I-95, take Hanover Street exit 55, McComas St (last exit before tunnel eastbound, first after tunnel westbound), north on Key Hwy which turns west, first left Lawrence St, left onto Fort Ave, continue east to gate into Fort McHenry. From the JFX, I-83, south to St Paul St exit, south on St Paul becomes Light St, then left (east) onto Fort Avenue, continue to end as above. Park on Wallace St (left just before the gate). Meet at the main gate.
*Directions to Lake Roland. From Baltimore Beltway I-695 take Jones Falls Expressway I-83 south to Northern Parkway exit, and go east (left) to next light, Falls Road. On Falls Road turn left (north). Immediately after third light (Lake Avenue), turn immediate right (before Falls Road bridge), then curve left and right again (avoid Light Rail entrance) and go .5 mile to the dam. Park and walk to footbridge.
*Directions to Fort McHenry. From I-95, take Hanover Street exit 55, McComas St (last exit before tunnel eastbound, first after tunnel westbound), north on Key Hwy which turns west, first left Lawrence St, left onto Fort Ave, continue east to gate into Fort McHenry. From the JFX, I-83, south to St Paul St exit, south on St Paul becomes Light St, then left (east) onto Fort Avenue, continue to end as above. Park on Wallace St (left just before the gate). Meet at the main gate. Meet at the main gate.
*Directions to Cylburn. From I-695 Baltimore Beltway, go south on I-83 Jones Falls Expressway. Take Northern Pkwy exit west (right). Move to left lane and turn left onto Cylburn Ave, left (south) onto Greenspring Ave; turn left again almost immediately at stone gate; follow drive to circle in front of mansion, 4915 Greenspring Ave. If access is blocked by construction, return to Greenspring Ave and turn right (north), then right on Cylburn Dr and right again on new driveway up the hill to the back of the grounds, parking is on left, walk towards and around the main, big mansion house to the front porch.
SEPTEMBER 2008.
*Directions to Lake Roland. From Baltimore Beltway I-695 take Jones Falls Expressway I-83 south to Northern Parkway exit, and go east (left) to next light, Falls Road. On Falls Road turn left (north). Immediately after third light (Lake Avenue), turn immediate right (before Falls Road bridge), then curve left and right again (avoid Light Rail entrance) and go .5 mile to the dam. Park and walk to footbridge.
*Directions to Cylburn. From I-695 Baltimore Beltway, go south on I-83 Jones Falls Expressway. Take Northern Pkwy exit west (right). Move to left lane and turn left onto Cylburn Ave, left (south) onto Greenspring Ave; turn left again almost immediately at stone gate; follow drive to circle in front of mansion, 4915 Greenspring Ave. If access is blocked by construction, return to Greenspring Ave and turn right (north), then right on Cylburn Dr and right again on new driveway up the hill to the back of the grounds, parking is on left, walk towards and around the main, big mansion house to the front porch.
*Directions to Fort McHenry. From I-95, take Hanover Street exit 55, McComas St (last exit before tunnel eastbound, first after tunnel westbound), north on Key Hwy which turns west, first left Lawrence St, left onto Fort Ave, continue east to gate into Fort McHenry. From the JFX, I-83, south to St Paul St exit, south on St Paul becomes Light St, then left (east) onto Fort Avenue, continue to end as above. Park in the Visitor Center Parking Lot. Meet outside the Visitor Center.
*Directions to Fort McHenry. From I-95, take Hanover Street exit 55, McComas St (last exit before tunnel eastbound, first after tunnel westbound), north on Key Hwy which turns west, first left Lawrence St, left onto Fort Ave, continue east to gate into Fort McHenry. From the JFX, I-83, south to St Paul St exit, south on St Paul becomes Light St, then left (east) onto Fort Avenue, continue to end as above. Park on Wallace St (left just before the gate). Meet at the main gate. Meet at the main gate. Leader: Jim Peters, (410) 429-0966.
*Directions to Cromwell Valley Park Walks. From the Baltimore Beltway (I-695) take Exit 29A Cromwell Bridge Road. Turn north (away from the city) onto Cromwell Bridge Road. At 1.4 miles, turn left at the "Willow Grove Farm Entrance." Follow entrance road, then turn left after bridge and park in lot on left.
*Directions to Cylburn. From I-695 Baltimore Beltway, go south on I-83 Jones Falls Expressway. Take Northern Pkwy exit west (right). Move to left lane and turn left onto Cylburn Ave, left (south) onto Greenspring Ave; turn left again almost immediately at stone gate; follow drive to circle in front of mansion, 4915 Greenspring Ave. If access is blocked by construction, return to Greenspring Ave and turn right (north), then right on Cylburn Dr and right again on new driveway up the hill to the back of the grounds, parking is on left, walk towards and around the main, big mansion house to the front porch.
*Directions to Lake Roland. From Baltimore Beltway I-695 take Jones Falls Expressway I-83 south to Northern Parkway exit, and go east (left) to next light, Falls Road. On Falls Road turn left (north). Immediately after third light (Lake Avenue), turn immediate right (before Falls Road bridge), then curve left and right again (avoid Light Rail entrance) and go .5 mile to the dam. Park and walk to footbridge.
*Directions to Greenmount Cemetery. From I-83, take North Ave exit. At light, turn left (east) onto North Ave. Go 10 blocks. Turn right on Greenmount Ave and go 4 short blocks. At Oliver St turn left into main gate and park.
*Directions to Fort McHenry. From I-95, take Hanover Street exit 55, McComas St (last exit before tunnel eastbound, first after tunnel westbound), north on Key Hwy which turns west, first left Lawrence St, left onto Fort Ave, continue east to gate into Fort McHenry. From the JFX, I-83, south to St Paul St exit, south on St Paul becomes Light St, then left (east) onto Fort Avenue, continue to end as above. Park on Wallace St (left just before the gate). Meet at the main gate. Meet at the main gate. Leader: Jim Peters, (410) 429-0966.
*Directions to Cylburn. From I-695 Baltimore Beltway, go south on I-83 Jones Falls Expressway. Take Northern Pkwy exit west (right). Move to left lane and turn left onto Cylburn Ave, left (south) onto Greenspring Ave; turn left again almost immediately at stone gate; follow drive to circle in front of mansion, 4915 Greenspring Ave. If access is blocked by construction, return to Greenspring Ave and turn right (north), then right on Cylburn Dr and right again on new driveway up the hill to the back of the grounds, parking is on left, walk towards and around the main, big mansion house to the front porch.
*Directions to Druid Hill Park Conservatory. The Conservatory is located at Auchentoroly Terrace and Gwynns Falls Parkway. From I-83 exit at 28th St. Follow signs to "Druid Park Lake Drive" (go along edge of the park). Turn right at 5th traffic light, Gwynns Falls Parkway. See the Conservatory on your right (an historic Victorian, glass greenhouse). Leader: Carol Schreter, (410) 664-5151
*Directions to Lake Roland. From Baltimore Beltway I-695 take Jones Falls Expressway I-83 south to Northern Parkway exit, and go east (left) to next light, Falls Road. On Falls Road turn left (north). Immediately after third light (Lake Avenue), turn immediate right (before Falls Road bridge), then curve left and right again (avoid Light Rail entrance) and go .5 mile to the dam. Park and walk to footbridge.
*Directions to Fort McHenry. From I-95, take Hanover Street exit 55, McComas St (last exit before tunnel eastbound, first after tunnel westbound), north on Key Hwy which turns west, first left Lawrence St, left onto Fort Ave, continue east to gate into Fort McHenry. From the JFX, I-83, south to St Paul St exit, south on St Paul becomes Light St, then left (east) onto Fort Avenue, continue to end as above. Park on Wallace St (left just before the gate). Meet at the main gate. Meet at the main gate. Leader: Jim Peters, (410) 429-0966.
*Directions to Fort McHenry. From I-95, take Hanover Street exit 55, McComas St (last exit before tunnel eastbound, first after tunnel westbound), north on Key Hwy which turns west, first left Lawrence St, left onto Fort Ave, continue east to gate into Fort McHenry. From the JFX, I-83, south to St Paul St exit, south on St Paul becomes Light St, then left (east) onto Fort Avenue, continue to end as above. Park in the Visitors Center parking lot. Meet at the Visitors Center. Cancelled in bad weather (high winds, fog, rain). Leader: Jim Peters, (410) 429-0966
*Directions to Cylburn. From I-695 Baltimore Beltway, go south on I-83 Jones Falls Expressway. Take Northern Pkwy exit west (right). Move to left lane and turn left onto Cylburn Ave, left (south) onto Greenspring Ave; turn left again almost immediately at stone gate; follow drive to circle in front of mansion, 4915 Greenspring Ave. If access is blocked by construction, return to Greenspring Ave and turn right (north), then right on Cylburn Dr and right again on new driveway up the hill to the back of the grounds, parking is on left, walk towards and around the main, big mansion house to the front porch.
*Directions to Lake Roland. From Baltimore Beltway I-695 take Jones Falls Expressway I-83 south to Northern Parkway exit, and go east (left) to next light, Falls Road. On Falls Road turn left (north). Immediately after third light (Lake Avenue), turn immediate right (before Falls Road bridge), then curve left and right again (avoid Light Rail entrance) and go .5 mile to the dam. Park and walk to footbridge.
*Directions to Cylburn. From I-695 Baltimore Beltway, go south on I-83 Jones Falls Expressway. Take Northern Pkwy exit west (right). Move to left lane and turn left onto Cylburn Ave, left (south) onto Greenspring Ave; turn left again almost immediately at stone gate; follow drive to circle in front of mansion, 4915 Greenspring Ave. If access is blocked by construction, return to Greenspring Ave and turn right (north), then right on Cylburn Dr and right again on new driveway up the hill to the back of the grounds, parking is on left, walk towards and around the main, big mansion house to the front porch.
*Directions to Lake Roland. From Baltimore Beltway I-695 take Jones Falls Expressway I-83 south to Northern Parkway exit, and go east (left) to next light, Falls Road. On Falls Road turn left (north). Immediately after third light (Lake Avenue), turn immediate right (before Falls Road bridge), then curve left and right again (avoid Light Rail entrance) and go .5 mile to the dam. Park and walk to footbridge.
Back to Table of Contents