Howard County Bird Club
A Chapter of the Maryland Ornithological Society
Poplar Springs Park
920 Watersville Road, Mt. Airy, MD 21771
Note: When first established, this park had a variety of habitats including a small meadow. Unfortunately trees were planted in the meadow reducing its attractiveness for birders. Although there is a modest butterfly list, most of the wildflowers which served as nectar sources have been shaded out.
Size: 7.1 acres; red (woods) trail is 0.22 miles, and purple trail is 0.35 miles.
Habitat: Maturing deciduous trees adjoining a stream; vegetated seepage area; brushy/weedy margins. Trees have been planted in the meadow so most open habitat will disappear.
Best Months: Spring, fall, and early winter.
Coverage Time: Fifteen minutes to one-half hour.
Trails/Paths: Trail from lefthand side of parking area leads through the woods and
connects to what was once a meadow trail.
Notable Birds: Bald Eagle, Cooper’s Hawk, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Winter Wren, Brown Thrasher, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Rusty Blackbird.
Amenities: Gravel parking lot adjacent to Watersville Road. A few wooden benches positioned throughout.
Handicapped Access: Dirt and grass paths with gentle grades.
Operation and Hours: Howard County park; dawn to dusk (or as posted).
Special Attractions: The Poplar Springs historic landmark associated with the early settlement of Howard County is located near the trail entrance.
Howard County Recreation and Parks information
Nearby Sites: Western Regional Park, Long Corner, West Friendship Park.
Compiler: Jeff Culler