Maryland's other river

Dave Mozurkewich (dm@fornax.usno.navy.mil)
Mon, 24 Nov 1997 08:36:22 -0500 (EST)


Due to the excitement about all the good birds up north, posts to this
list are giving the impression that the Susquehanna is the only
significant river in the state.  In an attempt to counter this rumor, I
spent a few hours Saturday along PG county's stretch of the Potomac river.
While I cannot compete with the quality of the birds along that other
river, I did fairly well in quantity and variety.  I estimate 5000 Ruddy
Ducks.  An equally large flock near the Virginia shore looked like they
were mostly scaup, but I did not have the two hours needed to get closer.
The most abundant waterfowl were the Canada Geese.  The remaining 1000+
ducks included most of the expected species.

Two birds are worth noting: a Brant and a Redhead.  The Brant was probably
an immature, based on my inability to see any white on its neck.  The
Redhead was an adult male and is annual here, despite the yellow book's
contrary claim.

The best view is from the boat ramp at the end of Wharf Road. 


David Mozurkewich
Seabrook MD USA
dm@fornax.usno.navy.mil