I had time for a quick trip this morning, so I chose the Glendening Preserve near Lothian. A previous visit wasn’t very productive, but they have a new boardwalk through the marsh that seemed worth checking. Well, it wasn’t. The boardwalk itself is a healthy hike from the entrance, during which I saw a Wild Turkey, who elected not to pose. It’s only my second sighting, so that was worthwhile. A Hermit Thrush was more cooperative, but that was about it for birds in the woods.
The boardwalk is on a steep hill, and not particularly easy to navigate. The steps are not well placed, and the boardwalk itself is quite narrow, with no railing. There wasn’t even enough room to set up my tripod, and I’d imagine two-way traffic could be perilous in the right conditions. It’s not that I don’t appreciate the effort, and I’m sure the cost wasn’t minor, but I’d say it’s borderline dangerous. The fall would only be three feet or so, but that’s enough to cause a problem.
You do get a very good view part of the marsh, and the viewing platform could probably handle 4-5 people.
A Cooper’s Hawk passed through, but there was no other action.
I stopped at Quiet Waters on the way home, and had better luck.

This Hermit Thrush was a willing subject.

I had a chance to get a better shot of this Cooper’s Hawk, but I fumbled.

This Red Breasted Merganser may be heading North to breed before too long.

I mistook this Pileated Woodpecker for a Red Bellied, briefly.