 It is possible to see about 200+ birds in the Hilton
Head area over the course of a year. Beaches, marshes, lagoons, bike trails,
harbours, docks, golf courses throughout the island are areas for birding. Just
be sure to observe all traffic, wildlife and no trespassing warnings - they
mean it!
Our most popular birding sites are listed below. For
additional sites please see our publication including
a checklist: "Birders Guide to Hilton Head Island, SC
and the Low Country". 4th Ed. $5.00. Available through
this web site, ABA, Coastal Discovery Museum and our
local nature and book stores.
Savannah National Wildlife Refuge (SC) - Located 22
mi south of the Hilton Head Is Bridge via US 278, SC 170 & US 17~ 26,000
acres. 4 1/2 mile Laural Hill Wildlife Drive through the freshwater
impoundments and hardwood harmmocks. Best in winter: ducks, wading birds and
migrants (912) 652-4415.
Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge
- Entrance to parking area located on US 278 westbound 1/4 mile from Hilton
Head Is. between the two causway bridges across from the public boat ramp. 4
mile gravel road - foot and bicycle traffic only. 4,053 acres, 14 miles of
nature trails. Saltmarsh, forest, brushland, fields, freshwater ponds. Spring
and fall migrations, wading birds and shorebirds, Nesting Painted Buntings on
entry drive, parking area and along walk to Ibis Pond (912) 652-4415.
Fish Haul Creek Park - About
4+ miles east of Hilton Head Isl. Bridge on US 278,
at traffic light continue east onto Beach City Rd (hospital
and library) to the beach. Parking lot and boardwalk/trails
on right. Best shorebird area late summer through early
spring..
Sea Pines Forest
Preserve - South end of island in Sea Pines Resort. ($5 gate pass) 605
acres of nature trails, bridle paths, wetlands, boardwalks, observation decks,
forests, lakes and sand ridges, Best birding in spring and fall. Designated
(I.B.A.) Important Birding Area in SC. |
