bird watching

Mattawoman Creek Natural Area – Indian Head

• Best For: Wading birds, raptors, and waterfowl

• Habitat: Tidal freshwater marsh, forest edge, and open water

• Species Highlights:

  • Great blue herons, wood ducks, osprey, green herons

  • Bald eagles nesting nearby

  • Migratory songbirds in spring and fall

• Access: Slavin’s Dock or Indian Head Rail Trail

• Season: Year-round (spring and early fall are most active)

Mallows Bay Park – Nanjemoy

• Best For: Bald eagles, ospreys, and shoreline birds
  
  

• Habitat: River shoreline, woods, and open water
  
  

• Species Highlights:
  
  

  • Nesting bald eagles, cormorants, belted kingfishers
    
    

  • Wintering waterfowl: buffleheads, mergansers
    
    

  • Warblers and vireos in spring
    
    

• Tip: Bring a scope for distant views across the bay
  
  

• Facilities: Picnic area, kayak launch, trail overlooks

Nanjemoy Wildlife Management Area

• Best For: Forest songbirds and secluded birding

• Habitat: Mature forest, seasonal wetlands

• Species Highlights:

  • Barred owls, pileated woodpeckers, red-shouldered hawks

  • Cerulean and prothonotary warblers (rare sightings)

• Note: Bring bug spray and GPS; trails are unmarked

Indian Head Rail Trail

• Best For: Birding while walking or cycling

• Habitat: Wooded corridor, creeks, and open fields

• Species Highlights:

  • Eastern bluebirds, cedar waxwings, tree swallows

  • Indigo buntings, yellow-rumped warblers

  • Hawks overhead and turkey vultures in thermals

• Best Spots: Benches near wetlands between MP 4–7