Ducks don’t mind the cold weather. Be more like a duck. Don your downiest coat and channel that duck resilience on this cruise to find wintering waterfowl on the Patuxent River. We will be on the lookout for bufflehead, canvasback, ruddy duck, greater and lesser scaup, common goldeneye, ring-necked duck, wood duck, American wigeon, black duck, common loon, American coot, dunlin, and horned lark.
Alex Pellegrini, one of our favorite naturalists at Patuxent River Park, will captain us on the park’s research pontoon boat. This special opportunity is only open to seven participants, with NHSM members having first access to registration through Thursday, Dec. 18. Registration will be open to everyone starting Dec. 19.
- Our meeting location can be found in your registration confirmation email when payment is completed.
- Watch for additional details in a welcome email sent a few days before the date.
- Children welcome over the age of 12.
- All participants must be pre-registered. If you are on the waitlist and show up to the event uninvited, you will not be allowed to participate.
- All children must meet age requirements and be registered as a guest of their adult.
- Dress according to the weather. Layers of clothing work best. Include a hat and gloves.
- Wear sturdy closed-toe hiking or athletic shoes with non-slip soles that can safely handle slippery surfaces.
- Bring water, snacks, and whatever you need to help with the cold.
- Bring binoculars and a hand lens or loupe for birding or looking at details, if you have them.
- Bring a first aid kit for your personal use.
- No pets, please.
All events are held rain or shine. If any event is cancelled due to severe weather, you will receive an email or text. If you do not receive a weather-related email, the trip will proceed as planned.
NEW Payment and Cancellation Policy: Payment is due online at the time of registration. Cancellations made 14 or more days in advance of the event will receive a refund minus a 5% processing fee. Cancellations made within 14 days of the event will not receive a refund. Events and field trips with fees of $25 or less are non-refundable at any time unless canceled by NHSM. NHSM retains the right to update or change these requirements at any time.
For questions, please email Jayne at JAsh@marylandnature.org.