Member Mtg and Presentation: Life on the Edge: Shorebirds and the Rhythm of the Tides

Event is FREE but please RSVP!

Discover the extraordinary lives of the birds that inhabit the ever-changing boundary between land and sea with Mary Alice Tartler, an accomplished wildlife photographer, Audubon Master Birder and a Member of the International Shorebird Survey Team. This presentation takes you on a journey to the water’s edge to meet the diverse array of shorebirds—from the iconic American Oystercatcher to the delicate Piping Plover—that rely on our coastal beaches and mudflats for survival. You will explore the incredible stamina and specialized adaptations that allow these birds to navigate thousands of miles along the Atlantic Flyway, making Hilton Head a vital sanctuary for their rest and refueling.

Central to this exploration is an understanding of the powerful influence of the tides, the true heartbeat of the Lowcountry coastline. Mary Alice will reveal how the daily ebb and flow dictates the lives of shorebirds, creating a high-stakes race for survival as they follow the retreating waterline to uncover hidden treasures. From the high energy of low-tide foraging to the strategic huddling at high-tide roosts, you will gain a new perspective on how these birds synchronize their entire existence with the lunar cycle.

Through the lens of Mary Alice’s stunning photography, you will witness the fascinating "dance" of the shoreline and learn to identify often-confusing species by their silhouettes and rhythmic movements. She will also share expert insights into the hidden challenges shorebirds face in our dynamic coastal environment and the critical importance of protecting their habitat. Whether you are a casual beachgoer or a seasoned enthusiast, this session offers an enlightening and memorable experience, leaving you with a renewed appreciation for the resilient masters of the coast and the rhythmic tides that sustain them.