nature – Worthy Mouse Clicks

I was biking around Lake Artemisia yesterday and then headed north on the Paint Branch Trail. Just north of the U. of MD, where there is a wetland area with tons of frogs. I could not see them, but they were singing loudly. I wish I had a Merlin like app that could identify the exact species. Probably something like that exists. Here are some similar sounds to the ones I heard:

https://musicofnature.com/calls-of-frogs-and-toads-of-the-northeast/

I also heard a Pileated Woodpecker who was almost as loud as a jackhammer. Unfortunately, it was so high up in the trees that my photos did not capture it clearly.

Here is the sound of a different woodpecker, but the sound is similar.

I did capture photos of some friendly and curious deer:

Here is the location of the frogs, if you want to go and listen:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/YgWwyCCX3DFgdhmo6

winter bird

On my way to the aquatic gardens for the first time in 2026, this big red shouldered hawk was just off the bike trail, along the river.

Bladensburg Waterfront Park

There is no way to have an experience as rich as their guided pontoon boat tours for any price. Our guide today told us about birds, bird migration, and invasive plant species along the Anacostia River. She bubbled with excitement and enthusiasm. Good thing she spoke loudly and did not need the boat’s sound system, which sounded worse than a toad with a sore throat.

Another thing to note is that the boat tour costs less than $5

Look at the eyes!