Bird River facts for kids

The Bird River is a special kind of waterway called a tidal river located in eastern Baltimore County, in the U.S. state of Maryland. It's a smaller river that eventually flows into the larger Gunpowder River.

What is a Tidal River?

The Bird River is known as a tidal river. This means that its water levels are affected by the ocean's tides. When the tide comes in, the river's water level rises. When the tide goes out, the water level drops. This happens even though the river is not directly connected to the ocean. The tides from the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean push water up the Gunpowder River and then into the Bird River.

Where is the Bird River Located?

The Bird River is found in the state of Maryland, which is on the east coast of the United States. Specifically, it's located in Baltimore County. This area is known for its many rivers and waterways that connect to the Chesapeake Bay.

Journey of the Bird River

Source of the River

Every river starts somewhere! The Bird River begins at a place that is about 134 ft (41 m) above sea level. This starting point is located at coordinates 39°24′5″N 76°25′57″W / 39.40139°N 76.43250°W / 39.40139; -76.43250. From there, the river flows downhill, collecting water as it goes.

Where the River Ends

The Bird River doesn't flow directly into the ocean. Instead, it empties into a larger river called the Gunpowder River. This meeting point is at sea level, meaning it's 0 ft (0 m) above the ocean. The coordinates for where the Bird River joins the Gunpowder River are 39°23′7″N 76°21′17″W / 39.38528°N 76.35472°W / 39.38528; -76.35472. The Gunpowder River then continues its journey to the Chesapeake Bay.

Tributaries of the Bird River

A tributary is a smaller stream or river that flows into a larger one. The Bird River has a few tributaries that add water to it. These include:

• Whitemarsh Run
• Windlass Run
• Railroad Creek

These smaller streams help to feed the Bird River, contributing to its flow and ecosystem.