As we trudge toward spring, waiting for vaccines and dodging more infectious Covid mutations, we thought we would offer weekly suggestions for outings. Here’s Garrett’s pick for this week– Huntley Meadows.
Here’s a little local gem: Huntley Meadows in Fairfax. As an old school Washingtonian, I don’t venture across the river lightly, but Huntley Meadows is a gem, and it continues last week’s theme of visiting properties owned by the Mason family. To be sure, there is the old Federalist style house of Thomas Mason, one-time mayor of Alexandria and grandson of George Mason, signer of the Declaration of Independence. He probably was a wicked man. The real draw, though, is the boardwalk. It’s a lovely stroll through a gorgeous wetlands and is a great example of how effective wetlands restoration can be! There are beavers – always awesome to see – but the real draw is ducks. Northern Pintails (super elegant!), Black Ducks, Northern Shovelers (great birds with huge bills), Belted Kingfishers, Soras, plus hawks and eagles– these are birds sure to delight not just birders, but normal people and even the most jaded high schoolers! Check it out!
