HOLLYWOOD, Md. — With the osprey heading south for the winter, birdwatchers in Southern Maryland are turning their eyes to the next wave of feathered visitors. The Southern Maryland Audubon Society has announced a full lineup of fall field trips and programs, inviting the public to explore prime birding spots across St. Mary’s, Charles and Calvert counties.
Founded in 1971, the Southern Maryland Audubon Society is the region’s largest citizen group focused on bird and nature study, as well as natural resource conservation. The nonprofit, all-volunteer organization leads free bird walks, monthly programs and educational outreach across Calvert, Charles, St. Mary’s and southern Prince George’s counties. Its mission is to support birds and the habitats they need to thrive through education, conservation partnerships and public advocacy.
The society’s fall calendar offers opportunities for everyone — from backyard beginners to seasoned birders — to experience migration season in some of the area’s most scenic landscapes.
Whether you’re an experienced birder or just curious with a phone app in hand, the Southern Maryland Audubon Society’s trips make it easy to share in the excitement of migration season and discover the birds moving through our region. Plan your next birding adventure with the events below.
September Excursions
- Sept. 13, 9 a.m. to noon — Birding the Fields and Trails of Sotterley, Historic Sotterley, Hollywood. Led by Dean Newman. Expect bald eagles, migrant songbirds and meadowlarks along the Patuxent River.
- Sept. 20, 9 to 11 a.m. — Quiet Birding: A Backyard Get-Together About Birds, Wildewood, California. Hosted by Jan de Regt, this no-walking, coffee-in-hand event is perfect for beginners with the Merlin Bird ID app.
- Sept. 20, 9 a.m. to noon — Another Sotterley trip with Dean Newman for those who missed the first.
- Sept. 27, 8 a.m. to noon — Migration on the Point, Point Lookout State Park, Scotland. Leader Tyler Bell will guide participants through Southern Maryland’s premier migration hotspot.
October Highlights
- Oct. 1, 7 to 8 p.m. — Zoom program: You Can Aid and Abet Mother Nature’s Hit-Squad to Keep Insect Pests at Bay. Dr. Michael J. Raupp, known as “The Bug Guy,” will share how beneficial insects can transform backyards.
- Oct. 11, 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. (rain date Oct. 12) — A Lazy Bird Walk for Late Migrants, Chapman State Park, Indian Head. Leaders Lynne Wheeler and Pam Brumbley promise a relaxed pace at one of Charles County’s birding gems.
- Oct. 25, 9 to 11:30 a.m. — Fall Birding at Jefferson Patterson Park and Museum, St. Leonard. Led by Phin Rouland, this trip offers diversity across wooded trails, open fields and waterfront views.
For more details, including directions and RSVP requirements, visit the Southern Maryland Audubon Society’s website at somdaudubon.org.
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