3 Essential Birdwatching Destinations To Explore Across Maryland

18.03.2024 - 17:51 / forbes.com

While Baltimore is home to a wealth of fascinating museums, restaurants and historic attractions, there’s a world of opportunity for visiting ecotourists found far beyond city limits. From the heart of Chesapeake Bay to the edge of the Atlantic, Maryland is rife with top-tier birdwatching destinations, each one equipped with a diverse array of species spanning from tiny passerines to fierce raptors. As you plan your next trip to the Old Line State, be sure to save some room on the itinerary for these can’t-miss birdwatching spots.

Worcester County’s sprawling Atlantic shoreline offers ample opportunity for spotting native flora and fauna, and for those hoping to encounter a wide variety of animals both large and small, Assateague Island is the perfect spot. Upon arrival, visitors can make their way to the region’s sprawling salt marshes to search for waders like the glossy ibis and black-crowned night-heron, while the island’s verdant forests play host to passerines like the Baltimore oriole, American goldfinch and cedar waxwing. As an added bonus, visitors can also catch a glimpse of the island’s free-roaming horses, a population that was introduced to the region several centuries ago.

After a lengthy day of island exploration, visitors can make their way north to spend the night in Ocean City, a vibrant resort town that draws millions of visitors throughout the year thanks to its scenic beaches. During a stroll along the boardwalk, guests can discover a massive array of drinking and dining venues, with The Shark on the Harbor earning abundant acclaim for its high-quality seafood. After a hearty meal of crab cakes and crispy oysters, Spain Wine Bar is located just over the bridge, with flavorful tapas, gorgeous rooftop views and plenty of Albariño all found across the property.

Measuring in at more than 1,200 square kilometers, Maryland’s Talbot County showcases the spectacular beauty of the state’s Eastern Shore. In the westernmost reaches of the county, Poplar Island serves as the local crown jewel for birdwatching, with vast swathes of tidal wetlands and ponds to explore. While the area is only accessible by boat, those who venture over will be richly rewarded with species ranging from the northern gannet to the horned grebe to the American bittern—and for those who prefer to stick to dry land, the Pickering Creek Audubon Center serves as an idyllic oasis that’s brimming with native wetland birds and insects.

Once you’ve had your fill of birding, the scenic town of Saint Michaels is located roughly twenty minutes away from the center, providing ample opportunity for an idyllic evening on the Miles River shore. History buffs can make their way to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum for a deep dive