I built up the courage to "bird" Meadowbrook now that it has been developed. It was surprisingly active. Mostly expected species but I did find my first PALM WARBLER, a number of young BLUE GROSBEAKS (probably local nesters) and some BOBOLINKS.

The best sparrow/wetland habitat is still intact. The paths will actually provide easier birding for those that don't care to "thrash" through the marshy wetlands. (However on one trip we found a case of beer that had been stashed for later consumption- needless to say the trip participants decided on finders/keepers-I'm sure there were some might disappointed teens that night!)

By the time I was leaving the park was getting very busy but mostly in the ballfield areas.

I expect it will still be very productive in October. This was an excellent place for Lincoln's and Swamp sparrows and marsh wrens. We also have found Bitterns and rails there.

Bonnie

Bonnie Ott
Howard County Field Trip Chair
Ellicott City, MD