We were in Howard County, Maryland today and decided to visit the Middle Patuxent Environmental Area. It covers a large area along the Middle Patuxent River and contains various trails. We ended up doing the Wildlife Loop Trail by the main parking lot. It was a bit wet and muddy at places but we got through it.
There were some nice flowers along the edge of the parking lot as well as the initial part of the trail. There were a few bees enjoying the flowers!
The Wildlife Loop Trail was a bit wet in places due to recent rain in the area. One section was covered with an inch or so of water but it was no big deal. Luckily, it was not too muddy in this area!
It was very green along the trail as it wound its way through the forest to the Middle Patuxent River and back out again. We heard quite a few birds but didn’t really have any luck finding any.
We saw a few birds darting here and there but the only one we were able to identify was this Blue Jay that was on a short section of boardwalk!
Eventually, we took a short side trail that lead through a open grassy area. Here, we saw birds! Including this male Indigo Bunting! We’ve only seen a few of this species and have never gotten a good look at the males and their beautiful deep blue color!
We also saw an Eastern Bluebird. Unfortunately, its colorful blue back was not facing us.
We also came across a House Wren!
Gallery: https://gallery.thesun.arfycat.com/Galleries/USA/Maryland/Middle-Patuxent-Environmental-Area-2022-07