Join naturalist Greg Kearns in a remarkable opportunity to learn about our sora rail population and its tight link with wild rice in the Patuxent River marshlands. While out on a pontoon boat, we hope to see rail on the mudflats at low tide and possibly watch the banding of a few individuals. We will learn about wild rice as it ends its seasonal bloom and its strong connection to the rail population. Greg began investigating this secretive small marsh waterbird in 1987, leading to groundbreaking research and a better understanding of the bird’s natural history, as well as an amazing restoration effort at Jug Bay under Greg’s direction.
Sighting Sora rail is highly dependent on the weather, which initiates their migration, and will be reflected in the number of rails in our vicinity. Please note that all bird observation and handling techniques match or exceed the practices outlined in the Bird Banders Code of Ethics. All banding is conducted under a federally authorized bird banding permit issued by the U.S. Geological Survey.
Greg Kearns, a MNCPPC naturalist/biologist for over 37 years at Patuxent River Park, is an accomplished photographer, birder, and authority on the sora rail, osprey, and the wetland ecology at Jug Bay. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources named him Conservationist of the Year in 2006 for his work restoring the wild rice marshes on the river, which has been recognized as one of Maryland’s best wetland recoveries.
- We’ll include our meeting location in your registration confirmation email once payment is complete.
- 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 without an invitation, you will not be allowed to participate.
- High school-aged children are welcome to attend and must be registered as a guest of their adult.
- No more than two children per adult.
- 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 a first aid kit for your personal use.
- No pets, please.
All events are held rain or shine. If severe weather cancels an event, 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 registration. Cancellations made 14 or more days before 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 NHSM cancels them. NHSM retains the right to update or change these requirements at any time.
NHSM Membership has its perks. Starting now, members on any program waitlist will move to the front of the line if an opening occurs. Get a membership, get priority. Click here: https://www.marylandnature.org/get-involved/membership/.
For questions, please email Jayne at JAsh@marylandnature.org.
Registration
Levels:-
NHSM Members: $32
Guests should be members, too. - Non Members: $40