Birds and Brews – Spring Edition

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Bird Watching Field Experiences

Envision sunshine, bird song, and the bright green of new leaves. Is it a dream, or are you birding at Waredaca Brewing Company? Wake up to find spring migration at its best. The sky is the limit for the species of birds we may find along the trail. And as a bonus, our hike ends in the taproom, so you can look forward to lunch with new birding friends.  The total hike length will be two to three miles.

The Waredaca site was originally a boys camp named the WAshington REcreational DAy CAmp, or Waredaca. The site grew into a premier equestrian center and is now the first farm brewery in Montgomery County. The property is certified by the Maryland Farm Stewardship Certification and Assessment Program, one of 20 horse farms in the state to receive the designation.

Here is a link to Waredaca’s menu: www.waredacabrewing.com.  Each beer made on-site is named after the family, the stories, and the horses of Camp Waredaca and Waredaca Farm.

Our birding leader, Charisma Burrows, joined the Baltimore Bird Club in 2020 and has been birding every weekend since. She currently serves as a State Director for the Maryland Ornithological Society, representing Baltimore City and County, and has been since 2022. She also organizes the Baltimore Bird Club’s partnership with Enoch Pratt Free Library in Baltimore City and the Baltimore County Library System to provide bird watching walks to library patrons during the spring and fall. Her favorite bird is the red-winged blackbird because it was the first bird she ever identified by herself.

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Bring binoculars and a hand lens or loupe for birding or looking at details, if you have them.
  • Bring your guidebooks, 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.

Registration

Levels:
  • NHSM Member: $10
    Guest names must be listed on your family membership to qualify for this discount. Extra adults with individual memberships should register independently.
  • Non Members: $15
Register Now!

Location

Laytonsville, Waredaca Brewing Company