During the month of February, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) will be conducting annual bald eagle nest surveys across the Lowcountry. These surveys are a critical part of monitoring South Carolina’s bald eagle population and tracking the continued success of this conservation effort.
As part of this work, SCDNR biologists and pilots will be flying low – altitude aircraft – sometimes at treetop level – over coastal and inland areas from Charleston south to Savannah and west to Walterboro, primarily on weekdays. These low passes are necessary to allow biologists to safely and accurately count eagle chicks in their nests.
To those on the ground, particularly near waterways, golf courses, and marshes, these flights may appear unusual. Please be assured that these operations are carefully planned, FAA-coordinated, and conducted safely by experienced aircrews. At no time are these flights intended to pose a risk to people or property.
These surveys represent one of South Carolina’s greatest wildlife conservation success stories. Thanks to decades of collaborative conservation efforts, the bald eagle, once endangered, has rebounded and is now thriving across much of the state.
We appreciate the public’s understanding and support as our teams work to protect and conserve South Carolina’s natural heritage. For questions or additional information, please contact SCDNR or follow our official channels for updates.
-Submitted by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources
(Image credit: photo by Cacky Rivers for the SCDNR)
