Bird Banding at Masonville Cove

Join us to learn how scientists band birds to study ecology both regionally and internationally, and how Baltimore’s green spaces support local birdlife. Researchers safely capture wild birds, fit them with unique, numbered metal tags, and record data on age, sex, weight, and health before releasing them. This data helps scientists track migration routes, population trends, and lifespan to inform conservation efforts.

Early May is an exciting time for Maryland’s birds. Many species are actively traveling, as the peak of the northbound, spring migration falls between the very end of April and the first two weeks of May. Other birds are already well into the breeding season, defending territories or caring for early-hatching chicks. Attendees will be able to watch up close the process of capturing and banding birds and learn how our banders discern age, sex, and breeding condition. Likely captures in early May include Swainson’s thrush, Lincoln’s sparrow, swamp sparrow, orchard oriole, and numerous warblers, including ovenbird, Northern waterthrush, common yellowthroat, and Northern parula.

The distance from the work-table to the furthest net and back is around a mile; most of the walking is on a fairly level, rock-and-gravel path. We recommend sturdy, closed-toe shoes. Attendees do not necessarily have to walk out to the nets and back if the distance is a challenge. There are benches and a few folding chairs around the worktable, and people are welcome to wait there.

Now in its fourth year, the Masonville Cove Bird Banding Station is run by Birds of Urban Baltimore in partnership with the Maryland Port Administration, Maryland Environmental Service, and the US Fish & Wildlife Service. Please note that while this tour is offered for free for qualifying groups, we appreciate your donation to cover our costs in offering this program.

A fall session of this program will be offered on Oct 10. Registration should open in late August to early September.

• 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.
• 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 ages are welcome and must be registered as a guest of their adult. Children should be able to stand quietly, listen, and follow instructions throughout the duration of the class session.
• No strollers.
• Dress according to the weather. Layers of clothing work best. Include a hat for sun protection or warmth, depending on the season.
• Wear sturdy closed-toe hiking or athletic shoes with non-slip soles that can safely handle slippery surfaces.
• Bring water, snacks, sunblock, and bug spray, depending on the season.
• Be aware that this site can be very buggy; even if you stay on the trails, ticks, mosquitoes, and gnats are all likely. Consider bringing bug spray and/or wearing long sleeves and pants, and check yourself for ticks upon getting home.
• 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.

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.