At a glance
Size: Approx. 60 Acres
Habitat: Deciduous swamp forest with a stream.
Trails: Partial.
Notable birds seen: Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Great Blue Heron.
Parking: Yes.
Facilities on site: NA
eBird: https://ebird.org/hotspot/L1111044
Additional Notes
Hunting is not permitted on this property but caution should be used when visiting during deer season.
Myrtle Simons Pelot Sanctuary (Caroline County)
In 1972, MOS purchased this approximately 60-acre property using a bequest from Mrs. Myrtle Pelot of Ridgely.
Originally, the land was part of an old mill property with Draper Mill Road forming the dam, which impounded Gravelly Branch. The dam washed out in 1937, and the rich pond sediments now support a thriving forest. It is located in the Red Bridges area of the Choptank River, an area that local birders have enjoyed for years. This Sanctuary is an oasis for flowers, birds, and other fauna in the midst of a predominantly agricultural area.
A marked trail begins at the sanctuary sign and there is a rest area with benches approximately 200 yards in on the left. There is parking for two or three cars along the road near the bridge.
Directions to Myrtle Simons Pelot Sanctuary
| From Route 50, turn onto MD 404 E | 7 miles | |
| Turn left onto MD 480 E | 8.1 miles | |
| Slight right onto Park Ave. | .1 miles | |
| Turn right onto Sunset Ave. | .3 miles | |
| Continue onto MD 314 E | .3 miles | |
| Turn left onto Wothers Rd. | .2 miles | |
| Turn left onto Drapers Mill Rd. | 1 mile |
Watch for sanctuary sign on your right. Park near the bridge.
Donate to the MOS Sanctuary Fund
Sanctuary Fund Donation Form
The Maryland Ornithological Society (MOS) appreciates donations designated to the Sanctuary Fund, which supports the ongoing maintenance and operations of the ten MOS sanctuaries, as well as for acquisition of additional lands. MOS is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and all donations are tax-deductible.
