Patuxent Research Refuge Hummingbird Guide

    Laurel, Anne Arundel CountyNational Wildlife Refuge and Research Refuge

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    Overview

    Patuxent Research Refuge is one of Maryland's strongest Hummingbird Trail listings because it combines federal conservation, research history, public access, and reliable summer hummingbird viewing. The refuge's forests, meadows, wetlands, pollinator gardens, and North Tract feeder stations create excellent warm-season habitat for Ruby-throated Hummingbirds. USFWS visitor guidance specifically points summer visitors toward hummingbirds at the feeder stations, making this one of the more direct and credible Maryland stops. Its location between Washington, D.C., and Baltimore gives the refuge major visitor potential, while the broader landscape supports hundreds of bird species. The special guest to watch for is Rufous Hummingbird, rare but possible outside the normal season. For Nectarbloom, Patuxent blends science, habitat, and public wonder.

    Hummingbirds to Watch For

    • • Ruby-throated Hummingbird

    Most Common Hummingbird

    The most commonly sighted hummingbird at Patuxent Research Refuge is the Ruby-throated Hummingbird.

    Special Guest Hummingbird

    Watch for the Rufous Hummingbird. Rufous Hummingbird is rare in Maryland, but fall or winter hummingbird reports are the special guest possibility to watch for beyond the normal Ruby-throated season.

    Best Time to Visit

    Plan your visit during June, July, August, September for the highest chance of hummingbird sightings. Early morning and late afternoon are typically the most active feeding times.

    Plants and Habitat

    • • Pollinator gardens
    • • Summer feeder stations
    • • Wetland and forest habitat
    • • Meadow edges
    • • Refuge plantings
    • • North Tract habitat
    • • Wildlife Loop corridor

    NectarBloom Tip

    Patuxent Research Refuge is the nation's only national wildlife refuge established specifically for wildlife research and has summer hummingbird feeder stations highlighted by USFWS.

    Visitor Notes

    Free public refuge. North Tract hours may be limited. South Tract and visitor center schedules vary. Visitors may need to sign in and stay on marked roads or trails. Check USFWS site before visiting.

    Map

    Ruby-throated Hummingbird near Pollinator gardens at Patuxent Research Refuge in Maryland

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