Community Corner

Bird Webcams + Rock Climbing + Easter Egg Hunts: Upcoming MD Events

Marylanders can watch birds in person or on these webcams. A hike will feature near-vertical rock climbing. Egg hunts are also on tap.

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The National Park Service Chesapeake Gateways and Chesapeake Conservancy suggested viewing a bird webcam. A blue heron, which does not live near the webcam, is pictured above in Baltimore County.
The National Park Service Chesapeake Gateways and Chesapeake Conservancy suggested viewing a bird webcam. A blue heron, which does not live near the webcam, is pictured above in Baltimore County. (Jacob Baumgart/Patch)

MARYLAND — Marylanders can watch falcons, ospreys and herons with these webcams or they can attend an upcoming bird-watching event. A hike along a canal will feature near-vertical rock climbing. Egg hunts and a Cherokee Festival round out the events. We also have some tips on when to rescue wild animals and when to let them be.

Patch recently partnered with several local organizations to bring you their latest news. This guest contribution comes from National Park Service Chesapeake Gateways and Chesapeake Conservancy. Here's what Jody Hedeman Couser submitted to help you explore the Chesapeake Bay:

"Live, Falcon, Osprey and Heron Webcam Action!

As a new year and season begin, we’re ready to once again delve into the lives of these beautiful birds.

Find out what's happening in Annapolisfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Peregrine Falcon Camera: Barb and Boh, the peregrine falcon pair, have started this season strong, with four eggs laid on March 17, 19, 22 and 24.

Osprey Camera: Audrey the osprey returned to the nest on March 17, as confirmed by Mrs. Crazy Osprey Man. Audrey and cam viewers now await Tom’s return.

Find out what's happening in Annapolisfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Great Blue Heron Camera: The great blue heron camera went live in early February following the return of several great blue herons to the rookery. Thanks to the generosity of explore.org, a second cam has been installed, offering more views into the rookery. We hope to see some evidence of eggs soon!"

"Guided Birding at Blackwater NWR

Just in time for some great spring birding, Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge has announced the dates for its spring birding tours. Led by veteran birder Terry Allen, you’ll not want to miss the opportunity to observe and identify Blackwater’s diverse array of birds – from warblers and wading birds to numerous species of waterfowl and raptors, including the bald eagle. Tours usually last 3-4 hours. April 2 and 30 and May 14, 8 a.m.; Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, Cambridge, MD More information"

"Hike the Billy Goat A Trail on the C&O Canal

This trail follows a path between the C&O Canal and the Potomac River within the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park. Billy Goat A has a near-vertical rock climb over angled rocks and boulders, but you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views of the Potomac River as it crashes through the gorge. Rated as moderate to strenuous. Free park and parking; the Sierra Club requests a $2 donation. March 31, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, Potomac, MD. More information and registration"

"EGGstreme Egg Hunt

There will be more than 5,000 eggs hidden along 10 miles of trails within New Germany State Park! Families who register and return their found eggs to the Lake House can win candy and prizes. Trail maps will be provided and snacks and drinks will be available for purchase. April 8, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.; New Germany State Park, Grantsville, MD. More information"

"Smallwood Egg Hunt and Festivities

You are invited to the Smallwood State Park Annual Egg Hunt and celebration with lots of prizes and goodies. Activities, including nature crafts and face painting, begin at 10:00 a.m. Then, the egg hunt begins at 10:30 a.m for the following age groups: 0 to 3 years old, 4 to 7 years-old and 8 to 10 years-old. April 8, 10 a.m.; Smallwood State Park, Marbury, MD. More information"

"Cherokee Days Festival

The National Museum of the American Indian is hosting its annual celebration of the Cherokee Nations with two days of events exploring Cherokee traditions and culture. The celebrations will include storytelling, traditional flute music, weaponry, woodcarving, beadwork, traditional games, basket weaving and pottery demonstrations, Cherokee Nation youth choir and music and dance performances. March 31 and April 1, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. More details and complete schedule"

"Baby Animals: To Rescue or Not to Rescue?

Spring is a time when many native species are busy raising their young, and it can be very enjoyable to watch. Young animals are very cute and it’s often hard to resist the urge to help them, but remember, by interfering with them, more harm than good is done. Their chances of survival are much better if left in their natural surroundings to be raised by their parents. When should you intervene or pick up the phone for help in rescuing baby animals? The Maryland Department of Natural Resources suggests the following situations require intervention: evidence of bleeding, an apparent or obvious broken limb, a featherless or nearly featherless bird on the ground, a dead parent nearby, audible distress calls (fawn crying, etc.) given over a prolonged period of time. Click here for species specific [advice] for baby birds, deer, foxes, rabbits, or squirrels. If an animal meets the criteria for rescue contact Wildlife Services toll-free at 1-877-463-6497 or contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator before attempting to handle the animal. They will give you the best advice on what to do and what not to do if you attempt rescue. Note: It is against the law for an unlicensed citizen to rehabilitate an animal on their own."

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