Surrounded almost entirely by bodies of water, green areas, and nature reserves, the city of Annapolis, MD is a birdwatching hotspot that attracts hundreds of different bird species and provides great opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts. If you are planning an exciting road trip around the region in your 2022 Toyota 4Runner, here are three destinations you should not miss.
1. Patuxent Research Refuge
Established in the 1930s by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Patuxent Research Refuge is dedicated to wildlife research and the preservation of local and migratory species. Covering an area of nearly 13,000 acres and managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, this place is home to over 270 different species of birds, making it a true paradise for birders and wildlife photographers.
Patuxent Research Refuge is located in the northeastern outskirts of Washington, D.C. and about 25 miles west of Annapolis, making it a popular day trip destination that can be reached in about half an hour via routes US-50 and MD-197. Some of the bird species that can be spotted in this research refuge include wild turkey, osprey, bald eagle, green heron, pileated woodpecker, and willow flycatcher.
2. Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge
Part of the larger Chesapeake Marshlands National Wildlife Refuge Complex, Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge is another popular birding destination that can be reached in about one hour and 20 minutes from the Annapolis city center. Spanning an area of almost 2,300 acres, this place provides habitat to over 240 different bird species and welcomes visitors from all over the country.
Some of the birds you can find while exploring Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge include the American black duck, northern pintail, green-winged teal, American wigeon, mourning dove, great blue heron, turkey vulture, and eastern wood-pewee. Crisscrossed by a large network of hiking trails, this national wildlife refuge is a place where you can easily spend an entire weekend enjoying nature with your friends or family.
3. Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary
Sitting on the banks of the Patuxent River and established to protect the unique ecosystem of Jug Bay, this wetlands sanctuary is home to over 100 species of birds including Canada goose, northern shoveler, common merganser, bald eagle, and northern harrier. This sanctuary covers an area of over 1,500 acres and is located a little over 20 miles southwest of downtown Annapolis. Getting here takes about 35 minutes via route MD-2 and Solomons Island Road.
The unique climate and sprawling green areas of Maryland make it a perfect destination to go on birding trips and outdoor adventures. While you are on your way to these locations, stop by Koons Toyota Annapolis! Serving our customers with exceptional service, a helpful team, and the best selection of Toyota vehicles in town, we will be happy to help you find a great deal.
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