Category: SIB

The birds are less active in the summer heat, and so are we. However, there are still opportunities for you to get your birding fix. If you have grandchildren or young visitors this summer, be sure to check out our new half day camp offerings. Pass on your interests to a new generation.  

Read more: Seabrook Island Birders July Activities

Learning Together on Crooked Oaks Golf Course

When: Monday, July 15, 2024  8:30 – 10:30 am
Location: Meet at the Island House (golf course parking lot next to Spinnaker Beach Houses) for ride along the golf course in golf carts
Max: 24 (If all seats in golf carts are used)
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests. Priority will be given to prior waitlisted and members

The Seabrook Island Club closes one course a day each week and allows SIB to use golf carts to travel the course to bird. Join us for a morning of birding by riding in golf carts for at least nine holes on Crooked Oaks golf course. We expect to see a large variety of birds including Egrets, Herons and birds of prey. We will also see and hear some of the smaller birds like Tufted Titmice, Eastern Bluebirds, Northern Cardinals, Carolina Wrens and some of the many warbler species. Since it is summer, we can also expect to see Eastern Kingbirds, Great-crested Flycatchers, Orchard Orioles, Summer Tanagers, Mississippi Kites and more!

As always, be sure to bring your binoculars/cameras, hats and sunscreen.  Water will be provided.  

Please register no later than Friday prior to the trip. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on Sunday, the day prior to the trip. If you need to cancel, please let us know so we can invite people on the waitlist to attend.

Register here.

Half-Day Summer Camps for Kids on Feathers and Their Owners

When: Wednesday, July 17, 2024, 8:30 am -12: 30 pm
Location: Oyster Catcher Community Center (2241 Oyster Catcher Ct)
Max: 12 people (You will be notified if you are on the waitlist)
Age: 8 to 15  
Cost: No charge for each attendee registered by 2024 SIB members; $10 donation for each attendee registered by non-members

This summer, SIB is offering something new!  Will you have a child  between the ages of 8-15 with you on Seabrook Island this summer who might like to learn more about feathers and birds??  Jane Settle, a retired marine biologist and teacher, avid naturalist, and SIB Shorebird Steward will be offering a fun and informative one-morning camp experience! 

There will be inside and outside activities. Participants will learn about both feathers ( structure and function) and the birds that “wear them”. Participants will investigate preserved feathers (collected with USFWS permit) with hand magnifiers, draw and color their own pictures of them, play word games, as well as take a walk outside and make observations along our nearby boardwalks, weather permitting.

What to bring:

* A water bottle
* A hat
* Sunscreen
* A cooperative attitude
* Binoculars will be provided
* No cell phones please

A snack will be provided.

Please complete the information for each child you are registering. If you need to cancel, please let us know so we can invite people on the waitlist to attend.

Register here.

Sit, Sip and See at Palmetto Lake

When: Tuesday, July 23, 2024, 7:00 pm
Location: Picnic table at the back of Palmetto Lake near the playground 
Max:  20  
Cost: None for members; $10 donation for guests

Note: If the weather doesn’t cooperate, we will reschedule later in the week so if you are unavailable on Tuesday, register anyway and put a note in the comment section that you wish to be notified if it needs to be rescheduled.  

Please join SIB for an evening of birding and socializing with your favorite beverage at Palmetto Lake. During the hot summer months birds are more active in the early morning and early evening. We thought that this would be a great location to gather and sit and let the birds come to us. At this location, near the playground, we can relax and watch the herons and egrets fly into their favorite roosting area. It is mesmerizing to observe the different groups fly into the lake area and then maneuver into their spot. There are a few places to sit at the picnic table, but you will probably want to bring a chair in order to get the best view. There will be SIB members available to carry your chair to our location. We will most likely see Green Herons, Little Blue Herons, Great Egrets, Tricolored Herons, Cattle Egrets, and White Ibis. We could additionally hear or see woodpeckers, hawks, and passerines.

This is a BYOB and BYOSnacks event. If you are not an experienced birder, this is the perfect opportunity to get some tips on using binoculars and phone apps, and identifying species and bird calls. 

As always, bring your binoculars and hats. No sunscreen required at this event, but you might want to bring bug repellent. 

Register no later than Sunday, July 21 . All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on Tuesday morning, July 23.

Register here.

Half-Day Summer Camps for Kids on Feathers and Their Owners

When: Wednesday, July 24, 2024, 8:30 am -12: 30 pm
Location: Oyster Catcher Community Center (2241 Oyster Catcher Ct)
Max: 12 people (You will be notified if you are on the waitlist)
Age: 8 to 15  
Cost: No charge for each attendee registered by 2024 SIB members; $10 donation for each attendee registered by non-members

This summer, SIB is offering something new!  Will you have a child  between the ages of 8-15 with you on Seabrook Island this summer who might like to learn more about feathers and birds??  Jane Settle, a retired marine biologist and teacher, avid naturalist, and SIB Shorebird Steward will be offering a fun and informative one-morning camp experience! 

There will be inside and outside activities. Participants will learn about both feathers ( structure and function) and the birds that “wear them”. Participants will investigate preserved feathers (collected with USFWS permit) with hand magnifiers, draw and color their own pictures of them, play word games, as well as take a walk outside and make observations along our nearby boardwalks, weather permitting.

What to bring:

* A water bottle
* A hat
* Sunscreen
* A cooperative attitude
* Binoculars will be provided
* No cell phones please

A snack will be provided.

Please complete the information for each child you are registering. If you need to cancel, please let us know so we can invite people on the waitlist to attend.

Register here.

-Submitted by SIB

May is a time for mothers and migration. SIB will celebrate both with activities. Migration and mothers will be observed on Global Big Day, on the golf course and in Backyard Birding. We end the month with an evening program on May 30 with Patrick Moore of Open Space Institute.

Beyond Our Backyard at May Forest State Park

When: Wednesday, May 1, 2024 9:00 am -12: 00 pm
Location: Meet at Real Estate office at 8:15 am
Max: 12 people
Cost: Free for members; $10 for guests.

Join SIB for birding a variety of diverse habitats in this lush, new state park.

May Forest State Park is located on James Island at the end of Fort Johnson Road. The 23 acres, once owned by the Sisters of Charity of Our Lady of Mercy, is rich with history dating back to the Archaic Period. The property includes a canopy of live oaks, native plants and exotic vegetation. By far, the stand-out feature of May Forest is the stunning view of the Charleston Harbor, where visitors can see a beautiful perspective of Charleston. One can point out the famous Battery, the Cooper River Bridge, the Yorktown and all the way to Sullivan’s Island. Visitors can enjoy the serenity of this majestic property, take in the breathtaking scenery, picnic on the bluff, enjoy the screened gazebo or relax in a swing.

We will explore the paths through the woods as well as areas overlooking the harbor. A preview visit in February resulted in seeing 33 species. Hopefully we will see some of our migrating warblers during this visit.  

There is a currently no entry fee for this state park.

There will be restrooms available, as well as benches and picnic tables. 

As always, be sure to bring your binoculars/cameras, hats, water bottle, snack, sunscreen and bug spray.  

Please register no later than April 29. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter the day prior to the trip. If you need to cancel, please let us know.

Register here.

Continue reading “SIB May Activities”

April means the arrival of Spring migrants and a variety of activities with Seabrook Island Birders. We have eight activities you won’t want to miss, including our evening meeting on Friday, April 26, 2024 with Rebecca Haynes, VP and Executive Director, Audubon South Carolina. Learn about the mission and impact of Audubon in the Palmetto State..

Learning Together on Ocean Winds Golf Course

When: Monday, April 8, 2024  8:30 – 10:30 am
Location: Meet at the Island House (golf course parking lot next to Spinnaker Beach Houses) for ride along the golf course in golf carts
Max: 24 (If all seats in golf carts are used)
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests. Priority will be given to prior waitlisted & members

The Seabrook Island Club closes one course a day each week and allows SIB to use golf carts to travel the course to bird. Join us for a morning of birding by riding in golf carts for at least nine holes on Ocean Winds golf course. We expect to see a large variety of birds including Egrets, Herons and birds of prey. We will also see and hear some of the smaller birds like Tufted Titmice, Eastern Bluebirds, Northern Cardinals, Carolina Wrens and some of the many warbler species. Since it is spring, we can also expect to see Eastern Kingbirds, Great-crested Flycatchers, Orchard Orioles, Summer Tanagers, Mississippi Kites and more!  A highlight will be the nesting activity at the rookery, as well as the chance to see two Osprey nests!  Even though it’s the day of the eclipse, that shouldn’t impact our morning activities.

As always, be sure to bring your binoculars/cameras, hats and sunscreen.  Water will be provided.  

Please register no later than Friday prior to the trip. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on Sunday, the day prior to the trip. If you need to cancel, please let us know so we can invite people on the waitlist to attend.

Register here.

April Movie, “Extraordinary Birder with Christian Cooper ”

When: Tuesday, April 9, 2024 at 4:00 pm 
Location: Zoom only

“Life-long birder, Christian Cooper, takes us on a journey to dive into and discover the wild, wonderful and unpredictable world of birds. S1 E3 · Hawaii (Jun 30, 2023) – Exploring the unique birdlife on Hawaii’s Big Island, Christian treks through rainforests and rocky terrain to meet a Hawaiian Hawk, feed adorable baby white terns, and join a wild goose chase.

To learn more about Christian Cooper, click here.

Register here.

Beyond Our Backyard – CawCaw Interpretive Center

When:Friday, April 12, 2024, 9:00 am – 12:00 noon
Location: Leave Seabrook Island Real Estate to carpool at 8:15 am. The drive is approximately 40 minutes.  
Cost: Free to members, $10 for non- members (Park entrance fee is $2 per adult, or a gold pass)

Join SIB at Caw Caw County Park as we search for spring migrants and discover the resident nesting birds. The park is comprised of three colonial era rice fields, fresh, brackish, saltwater marshes, cypress-tupelo swamps, bottomland, and beech-holly forests.  All told, these varied habitats comprise a total of 654 acres with six miles of trails. Over 250 bird species have been observed within the boundaries of Caw Caw.  

Some of the bird species we may find during this time of the year include Painted Bunting, Indigo Bunting, Blue Grosbeak, Prothonotary Warbler, Yellow Throated Warbler, Yellow Billed Cuckoo, Prairie Warbler, Pine Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Orchard Oriole, Northern Paula, Hooded Warbler, Black-Throated Blue Warbler, Yellow Throated Vireo, White-Eyed Vireo, Summer Tanager, Mississippi Kite, Swallow-Tailed Kite, American Bittern, Least Bittern, Osprey,  Bald Eagle, and the wide variety of wading birds present in the park year round.  

Appropriate footwear is recommended as we will likely walk approximately two to three miles. Even during dry spells, wet trail conditions may be encountered. Participants should also consider these other items to maximize their comfort and enjoyment: binoculars, bug spray, sunscreen, hats, layered clothing to adjust to the morning’s weather, field guides if print is your preference,  eyeglass – lens cleaner, water, snacks, camera, and a pack or shoulder bag for your needs.    

For those who are interested, we’ll lunch at Angel Oaks Cafe after our walk.

Please register prior to April 11, 2024.  All registrants will receive a confirmation letter the day before the event.  

Register here.

Learning Together – Six Ladies Trail/Bobcat

When: Monday, April 15, 2024, 9:00 – 11:00 am
Location: Meet at Bobcat and Six Ladies Trails
Max: 12
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests

Let’s start the day with a visit to the areas near the beach. Some of our spring migrants may have come in or we may see remainders of our winter visitors.  Painted Buntings should have begun to arrive. Eastern Towhee and Gulls and Egrets should also be seen. While on Six Ladies Trail, we can possibly see some raptors and egrets when we stop at the picnic table looking over the marsh towards Creek Watch .  

As always, be sure to bring your binoculars/cameras, hats and sunscreen. 

Please register  no later than Saturday, April 13, 2024. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on Sunday, April 14, 2024.

Register here.

Beyond Our Backyard – James Island County Park 

When: Wednesday, April 17, 2024, 10;00 am – 12:00 noon
Location: Meet at SI real estate office at 9:15 am
Max: 12 
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests (Park Admission $2 per person, free for Gold Pass members and guests.)

Join SIB for a morning birding a variety of diverse habitats in this lush, well maintained county park.

James Island County Park is a 643 acre park with an abundance of natural beauty, consisting of open meadows, miles of easy to navigate paved and unpaved trails, with ponds, marshland and views of the Stono River from the fishing dock.

We will explore approximately two miles of paved and unpaved sections looking for the over 100 potential species seen here in the past at this time of year, including Wood stork, Green Heron, Blue-headed Vireo, Purple Martin, Marsh Wren, to name a few. If we are lucky we might be able to catch a glimpse of our many overwintering Sparrows before they head up north for breeding, and possibly some early spring migrants and rarities making their way to or through the area.

There is a $2 per person entry fee unless you are a Gold Pass Member or ride with someone who has a Gold Pass.

There will be restrooms available as well as picnic tables and water fountains along our route.

As always, be sure to bring your binoculars/cameras, hats, water bottle, snack, sunscreen and bug spray.  

For those who are interested, we are planning to visit one of James Islands’ nearby restaurants (TBD) following the morning activity.

Please register no later than April 15, 2024. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter the day prior to the trip. If you need to cancel, please let us know so we can invite people on the waitlist to attend. 

Register here.

Beyond Our Backyard – Edisto Nature Trail  

When: Sunday, April 21, 2024, 7:00 am – 12:00 noon (The walk starts at Edisto Nature Trail at 8:00 am). An optional (weather permitting) drive down Hyde Park Road is planned for the return drive.
Location:Meet at SI Real Estate office to carpool to Edisto Nature Trail  (approximately a 50 minute drive)
Edisto Nature Trail:  17038 Ace Basin Pkwy Jacksonboro, SC  
Max: 15
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests

Come join us for spring migration at the Edisto Nature Trail. This park, within the ACE Basin on Highway 17, is both a migrant hot spot and a known nesting area for a number of sought after bird species. The park, adjacent to the Edisto River, has a variety of habitats along its one point five mile looped trail.

Some of the bird species we hope to see, and have encountered in prior years, include such Warbler Species as Prothonotary, Worm-Eating, Black and White, Swainson’s, Kentucky, and Hooded. Other possible bird species include Veery, Scarlet Tanager, Blackburnian Warbler, Rose-Breasted Grosbeak, Blackpoll Warbler, Prairie Warbler, Blue-Winged Warbler, Warbling Vireos, and a variety of raptors.  

This nature trail has a number of boardwalk crossovers to assist in traversing potentially wet areas. Appropriate footwear is recommended, even during dry spells. Participants should also consider these other items to maximize their comfort and enjoyment: binoculars, bug spray, sunscreen, hats, layered clothing to adjust to the morning’s weather, field guides if print is your preference, eyeglass – lens cleaner, water, snacks, camera, and a pack or shoulder bag for your needs.    

Weather permitting, for those looking to extend their day, we will drive Hyde Park Rd on our return home. Hyde is a productive corridor for spring migrants that parallels Savannah Highway.  

Please register no later than Friday, April 19, 2024.  All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on the day prior to the event.

Register here.

Beyond Our Backyard: Beidler Forest

When: Thursday, April 25, 2024, 7:30 am – 2:00 pm (Tour starts at Beidler at 9:30 am)
Location: Meet at SI Real Estate office to carpool to Francis Beidler Forest Audubon Center & Sanctuary  (approximately a one and a half hour drive)
Max: 15
Cost: $12 for members; $10 fee for guests.

If you have never been to Francis Beidler Forest Audubon Center & Sanctuary, you won’t want to miss this opportunity – it’s well worth the 70-mile one-way trip!  We observed 32 species of birds on our last visit, including Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Swallow-tailed Kite, Barred Owl, and of course, Prothonotary Warbler!

The walk ends between 12:00 and 12:30. Participants may want to bring a lunch, snacks and beverages to “picnic” at the Center prior to their return to Seabrook Island as there are limited number of restaurants in the area. Also, be sure to bring sun block, bug spray, a hat, binoculars, camera and a scope if you have one.  

Please register no later than no later than Tuesday, April 23.  All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on Wednesday, April 24.

Register here.

SIB Presents: Audubon SC – A Presentation on the Future Vision of This Important SIB Partner

Speaker: Rebecca Haynes, Executive Director Audubon South Carolina

Date: Friday, April 26, 2024, 7:00 pm
Location: The Lake House Live Oak Hall

• 7:00 pm: Registration & Refreshments
• 7:30 pm: Program
• 8:45 pm: Program ends

Program Description:

Rebecca will speak about Audubon South Carolina and the vision for the future of the organization. This will include how and where they are growing their impact such as coastal stewardship work, resilience planning with the state and communities, and improvements at their sanctuaries which are both turning 50 this year and next.

South Carolina Audubon is an important partner to Seabrook Island Birders. One of the most important outcomes of this partnership is our Shorebird Steward program. Click the link below to learn more about Audubon’s Stewardship effort, featuring our own Shorebird Stewards program.

How Audubon South Carolina Protects Their Coastal Birds and the Places They Need

Speaker Bio:

Rebecca Haynes has over 20 years of experience working in conservation. Rebecca spent her early career as a Watershed Manager at South Carolina’s Department of Health and Environmental Control working in the Savannah and Saluda River Basins. She later became the Associate Director of Southeast Conservation for American Rivers working on water supply issues as well as working with State and Federal agencies on hydropower dam proceedings in Alabama and South Carolina.

Rebecca most recently served as Government Relations Director and then Deputy Director for Conservations Voters of South Carolina for ten years. In addition to helping double the size of the organization and tripling its operating budget during her tenure, Rebecca was pivotal in the development and success of the South Carolina Conservation Coalition, a formal dues-paying coalition comprising over 40 environmental organizations from across the state.

Rebecca now serves as the Vice President and Executive Director of National Audubon Society South Carolina, bringing a deep understanding of conservation, environmental politics and policy in South Carolina to the team.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, a certificate in Environmental Ethics, and a Master of Science degree in Conservation Ecology and Sustainable Development from the University of Georgia. When not at work, you can find Rebecca volunteering and mentoring in her community including serving in leadership roles in her historic downtown neighborhood, as a City of Columbia Commissioner for the Bull St District, and on the Alumni Board for the UGA Odum School of Ecology. She loves spending time with her husband and son and their dog and cat at their home in Columbia.

Register here.

Backyard Birding at the Haulover Rookery

When: Sunday, April 28, 2024, 5:00 – 6:30 pm
Location: 2445 The Haul Over
Max: 20
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests.

We are going back! Our visit last May to Annalee Regenburg’s backyard was a success as we saw a bumper crop of Egret and Heron nests. We lost count at 100 nests. Annalee’s house backs up to the Great White Egret Rookery. The females sit on their nests all day and the males come into the nests in the evenings. We plan on observing this wonderful, sometimes noisy event. We will likely see some snowy egrets and green herons, plus some night herons and Wood Storks too. One year, we even saw Cattle Egrets. Please walk around back when you arrive.

As always, be sure to bring your water, binoculars, hats and sunscreen.  

Please register no later than Friday, April 26. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on Saturday, April 27.

Register here.

-Submitted by SIB

(Image credit: SIB, National Geographic, Audubon South Carolina)

Unlike an Easter Egg Hunt, you won’t have to search for a SIB activity that you will enjoy. With ten different activities to choose from, there is bound to be something to suit birders of all interests. We would also like to remind to you to save the date: Friday, April 26, 2024 for our meeting with Rebecca Haynes, VP and Executive Director, Audubon South Carolina. Join us to learn about the mission and impact of Audubon in the Palmetto State. 

Beyond Our Backyard – McAlhany Nature Preserve near St. George, SC

When: Saturday, March 2, 2024  with morning only (8:30 – 11:00 am) and all day (8:30 am – 2:00 pm) options
Location: Leave Seabrook Island Real Estate to carpool at 6:30 am (please be there before 6:30 am);  Google maps indicates 1 hour 45 minutes to McAlhany Nature Preserve from Seabrook Island
Note:  Cars with low ground clearance are not recommended for the drive into McAlhany 
Max: 12 
Cost:  Free for members, $10 per guest

Join SIB to bird at the beautiful McAlhany Nature Preserve on the Edisto River near Saint George. This 367 acre preserve is under a conservation easement with the Lowcountry Open Land Trust and is owned and managed by the Charleston chapter (Charleston Natural History Society) of the Audubon Society. This property includes such habitats as one and a half miles of frontage on the Edisto River, a nine acre oxbow lake, bottomland hardwoods forest, a freshwater marsh, upland oak-hickory forest and a restored longleaf pine and native grasslands area. To get a feel for the types of habitats as well as the species that live and pass through, take a look at “Flora and Fauna of McAlhany Nature Preserve” .   

All birding will be on foot so wear comfortable hiking shoes.

In the morning, we will cover about two miles of wooded trails birding the south side of Wire Road along the River Trail. This area includes the river frontage, the oxbow lake, the Cypress Forest and flood plain. We can expect to see a large variety of birds including Egrets, Herons, Anhinga, and Wood Ducks as well as birds of prey like Barred Owl, Red-tailed and Red-shouldered Hawks.  We will also see and hear our resident smaller birds like Tufted Titmice, Northern Cardinals, Carolina Wrens, hopefully two vireo species – Blue-headed and White-eyed. A few sparrow species should still be present and we could also see several warbler species including some early arrivals or wintering warblers such as Northern Parula, Common Yellow-throat, Yellow-throated, Yellow-rumped and Black-and-White warblers. We will eat an early lunch at about 11:00 am in the picnic area. In the afternoon, we will explore the young longleaf pine and grassland areas on the north side of Wire Road covering about one and a half miles of sandy trail and fire breaks. We will hopefully see Sedge and House Wrens, Pine warblers, Eastern Bluebirds and other grassland loving birds. Many of these species can also be seen on either side of the road.  

As always, be sure to bring your binoculars/cameras, bug spray, hats and sunscreen. Bring plenty to drink and a picnic lunch to eat on the property. We will make use of the picnic shelter and have use of the cabin with bathroom, refrigerator and running water.

Please register no later than Thursday, February 29, 2024.  All registrants will receive a confirmation letter the day prior the event.  

Register here.

Learning Together on Jenkins Point

When: Tuesday, March 5, 2024,  3:30 – 5:00 pm
Location: Meet at the first lagoon on left
Max: 20
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests

We will be exploring the birds seen along Jenkins Point lagoons and streets, including wading birds, shorebirds, song birds and possibly ducks. We will go from location to location via car or bike. Since this event can be primarily by car, it is appropriate for members with mobility issues. Meet at Jenkins Point Court, the street after the first pond on the left.

As always, be sure to bring your binoculars/cameras, hats and sunscreen. 

Please register  no later than one day prior to the trip. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on the day before the trip. If you need to cancel, please let us know so we can invite people on the waitlist to attend.

Register here.

Birding Beyond our Backyard: Huntington Beach State Park

When: Thursday, March 07, 2024, 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
Location: Meet at SI real estate office to car pool to Huntington Beach State Park
Max: 10 
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests; Park Admission: $8 adult; $5 senior

This is SIB’s first official excursion to this state jewel and we expect it to be worth the two plus hour drive. Our 2020 visit was canceled but subsequently several members have visited independently. The park is known as one of the best birding sites in the Southeast. A wide variety of birds can be seen at various locations throughout the park. eBird shows over 200 species seen in March in the last ten years with last year’s list including both wintering ducks and migrant warblers. The park has salt water marshes, hiking trails and three miles of beach. We will stop at the entrance station to get a current checklist and hopefully, expert advice from the rangers regarding best places to bird on that day. If you want to do some early preparation, the Carolina Bird Club has a full page dedicated to birding at Huntington Beach State Park.

Each person should bring their own snacks and beverages, as we likely won’t stop to eat until the return trip. Also be sure to bring sun block, bug spray, a hat, binoculars, camera and a scope if you have one.  

Please register no later than Tuesday, March 5, 2024. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on Wednesday, March 6, 2024.  

Register here.

Beyond Our Backyard at Kiawah River

When: Sunday, March 10, 2024, 8:00 – 11:00 am
Location: Meet at the “bridge” entering the property
Max: 12
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests

Welcome in the time change with another chance to check out birds that can be found on this varied habitat  property. We expect to see a large variety of birds including Double-crested Cormorants, Egrets, Herons, Osprey and other birds of prey. If we are lucky, we will see an eagle and osprey duel over a fish. As we enter the property, we hope to catch a glimpse of the resident American Coots and Loggerhead Shrikes. We should also see and hear some of the smaller birds like Tufted Titmice, Eastern Bluebirds, Northern Cardinals. We will drive to various locations on the property and then walk for better birding observations.  Of course, this also gives us a chance to see this neighboring development.  High tide is at 9:05 am so our chance for shorebirds along the Kiawah River are limited….but we can hope.

As always, be sure to bring your binoculars, hats, water and sunscreen.   

Please register no later than Friday, March 8, 2023.  All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on the day prior to the event.

Register here.

March Movie, “Extraordinary Birder with Christian Cooper ”

When: Tuesday, March 12, 2024 at 4:00 pm 
Location: In person at Oyster Catcher Community Center (if there are at least five people) and virtually via Zoom

“Life-long birder, Christian Cooper, takes us on a journey to dive into and discover the wild, wonderful and unpredictable world of birds. S1 E2 · New York City – (Jun 24, 2023) Christian Cooper meets the fascinating birds of his hometown, New York City.”

To learn more about Christian Cooper, click here.

Register here.

Learning Together-Palmetto Lake

When: Sunday, March 17, 2024, 4:00 – 5:30 pm
Location: Meet at equestrian end of The Lake House parking lot
Max: 15
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests.

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by participating in a green event of bird watching! Join SIB for a leisurely walk around Palmetto Lake. We plan to walk part way along the path towards the Equestrian Center then hopefully see the “white birds” come in to roost for the evening. The path around Palmetto Lake is wheelchair navigable and for those walking, it will probably be only a quarter of a mile. As we walk along Seabrook Island Road, we hope to see some of our resident winter warblers such as Yellow-rumped Warblers, Palm Warblers and Black and White Warbler. We also expect to see a large variety of birds including Northern Cardinals, Carolina Wrens, Herons and birds of prey. If the “white birds” get the invitation, we hope to see Snowy Egrets, Great Egrets and White Ibis roosting for the evening. Hooded Mergansers, Pie-billed Grebes and Buffleheads may be seen swimming in the lake.

Dress in layers and bring your binoculars, hats, and a beverage of choice. You may also wish to bring a chair to sit and enjoy your beverage while watching the birds coming in for their evening roost.

Please register no later than no later than March 15. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter the day prior to the trip. If you need to cancel, please let us know so we can invite people on the waitlist to attend.

Register here.

Learning Together on Crooked Oaks Golf Course

When: Monday, March 18, 2024  8:30 – 10:30 am
Location: Meet at the Island House (golf course parking lot next to Spinnaker Beach Houses) for ride along the golf course in golf carts
Max: 24 (If all seats in golf carts are used)
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests. Priority will be given to prior waitlisted & members

The Seabrook Island Club closes one course a day each week and allows SIB to use golf carts to travel the course to bird. Join us for a morning of birding by riding in golf carts for at least nine holes on Crooked Oaks golf course. We expect to see a large variety of birds including Egrets, Herons and birds of prey. We will also see and hear some of the smaller birds like Tufted Titmice, Eastern Bluebirds, Northern Cardinals, Carolina Wrens and some of the many warbler species. Since it is winter, we can also expect to see Eastern Phoebes, Northern Flickers, Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers, Belted Kingfishers, Double-crested Cormorants, Bald Eagles, and more!

As always, be sure to bring your binoculars/cameras, hats and sunscreen.  Water will be provided.  

Please register no later than Friday prior to the trip. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on Sunday, the day prior to the trip. If you need to cancel, please let us know so we can invite people on the waitlist to attend.

Register here.

Beyond Our Backyard – Charles Towne Landing

When: Wednesday, March 20, 2024, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Meet at Seabrook Island real estate to carpool at 8:00 am;
Meet at Charles Towne Landing at 9:00 am;
Lunch option after birding: Ms. Rose’s Fine Food and Cocktails
Max: 16
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests; 
Park Admission: $12 adult; $7.50 SC senior

Join SIB to bird at Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site. Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site, located off the Ashley River, sits on a marshy point where a group of English settlers landed in 1670 and established what would become the birthplace of the Carolina colony. The significant features of the site include river and marsh views, majestic oaks and magnolias and 80 acres of English park gardens. Wildlife you may see at the park include the threatened wood storks, alligators and various coastal wading birds in the wild.

We will bird along the trails and marshes. After the organized walk, you can visit the Animal Forest (included in admission) to see animals that once inhabited the Charleston area such as bison, puma, black bear, otters, various shore birds, wild turkey and more.

In 2021, some SIB members did this walk and enjoyed watching a Great Horned Owl with its branching offspring. In March, 2022, we saw 44 species. According to eBird, 134 species have been seen during the spring at this hot spot. The diverse environment provides for shorebirds, wading birds, raptors, and song birds.   

For the end of our morning, we plan to make a lunch stop at the nearby Ms. Rose’s Fine Food and Cocktails.  

As always, be sure to bring your binoculars/cameras, hats, sunscreen and bug spray.  

Please register no later than March 18. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter the day prior to the trip. If you need to cancel, please let us know so we can invite people on the waitlist to attend.

Register here.

Backyard Birding at Jenkins Lagoon

When: Sunday, March 24, 2024, 8:00 – 10:00 am
Location: 1219 Jenkins Lagoon Drive N
Max: 12
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests.

Join SIB members Meredith and Clint Allen at their address, 1219 Jenkins Lagoon Drive N. The star of their backyard is a group of 14 roseate spoonbills. A pair have moved to a tree very close to the house. Could they be nesting??? They also have egrets and herons with an occasional visit from a bald eagle. Many songbirds have been identified too. Meredith has also invited us into her house for a light breakfast, coffee and mimosa bar.

Bring  binoculars and bug spray.  

Please register no later than March 22. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter the day before the activity.

Register here.

Learning Together at North Beach

When: Thursday, March 28, 2024, 9:00 – 11:30 am
Location: Meet at boardwalk # 1 parking lot
Max: None
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests.

Join SIB to bird at Seabrook Island’s North Beach. This three-mile round trip walk travels from boardwalk #1 to the tip of North Beach along Captain Sams Inlet as high tide approaches. Birders from beginners to advanced will enjoy the variety of birds found on North Beach. At this time, many different species of shorebirds rest and feed near the point or along the beach ridge near the beach’s pond. Along the way, we will explore the many different species that can be found in this unique area.

As always, be sure to bring your binoculars/cameras, hats and sunscreen. Bring a spotting scope if you have one. Bring plenty to drink and a snack if desired. There are no facilities.

Please register no later than March 26. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on March 27, the day prior to the trip. If you need to cancel, please let us know so we can invite people on the waitlist to attend.

Register here.

-Submitted by SIB

(Image credit: SIB, National Geographic, SC Dept. of Natural Resources)

SIB Shorebird Stewards (SS) will hold their 2024 training session on Saturday, February 24. It will take place from 10:00 am – noon at the Oyster Catcher Community Center. Please read Sally Budinot’s reasons for becoming a Shorebird Steward. If Sally’s experience appeals to you, please sign up for the upcoming training sessions  today! 

Like most of us, I spent much of my 40 year professional career inside, behind a computer screen. Retiring to Seabrook Island in 2020 was an epiphany for me and my husband, Doug. There is a whole world out here! There are no lions and tigers and bears, but plenty of alligators, dolphins, and, of course, BIRDS! I will stay clear of the alligators; the dolphins never cease to amaze me, but much of their time is spent where I can’t see them. But BIRDS? Who knew? Well, thankfully, many Seabrookers know, and are willing to share their knowledge and enthusiasm.

Moving to Seabrook during the middle of the COVID pandemic proved a difficult time for meeting new friends and neighbors. My desire to get out and meet people was my first incentive to become a Shorebird Steward. While precautions were paramount, I was still able to be outside, safely at a distance from visitors, and experience the wonders of the many migratory birds that are our part-time guests. Little did I know at the time, this Shorebird Steward experience would become a very important part of my life on Seabrook.

Being a SS means having a reason to put “beach time” on my calendar. Life can get in the way of enjoying so many of our natural wonders, but signing up for a shift causes me to get beach time “set in stone”. I never regret time spent on the beach. Even if there are few others on the beach with me, I can experience the awesome power of the ocean and the wildlife dependent on it.

I enjoy meeting people! Many of those I encounter on my SS shifts are residents of SI, either full-timers out on their regular beach walk, or part-timers taking in the changes that have occurred on North Beach since their last time there. And the visitors! They are here because they love this island! Many visitors I have met have been visiting SI longer than I have been living here, and they love it! They, too, marvel at the changes, and are always intrigued by the migratory birds. Visitors who are here for the first time are mesmerized by the array of wildlife, especially birds, that have found their way to our island home. For many, it is their first time to encounter Red Knots, Skimmers, Oyster Catchers, and Least Terns. And always, those newcomers ask “Do you live here? What is it like?” And I get to share how much I love it here, and appreciate how lucky I am, as indicated by their envy!

How do I know what I am seeing? How do I answer the questions thrown my way? Honestly, I can’t always! Shorebird Stewards are given thorough training by our birding enthusiasts, headed by Mark Andrews and Bob Mercer. We have refresher courses late each winter, in preparation for the upcoming season. Remember, we haven’t seen our migratory birds since last spring, so a refresher course is quite helpful! At first, I found it helpful to sign up with a more experienced birder, so that I could observe and listen to their interactions. I soon realized that one doesn’t have to be a birding expert to create a meaningful experience for our curious visitors. The Shorebird Steward leadership team provides excellent visual aids that accompany us on our shifts, and we always encourage those with whom we come in contact to visit our website for more photos and information. It is there that one can look at the photos up close (there is usually a sun glare on our phone screen) and can get more info on migratory patterns of our traveling birds.

I have never heard of Red Knots before my involvement with the Shorebird Stewards, since, when they arrive here, they are not red, I was a bit confused about them. But as I have learned about their notably long migration and Seabrook Island’s importance in their ability to make it to their nesting area in the far north, I have been compelled to learn more about other migratory birds. I have had the opportunity to see Whimbrels occasionally on our island, and to learn about how important Deveaux Bank is to their survival. I have been amazed at our resident Oyster Catcher U5 and his mate, and got to see them take care of their eggs, watch their chicks fledge, and to have my heart broken with Least Tern eggs that have been stolen by a predator. I am curious about how the changes to our dunes from the recent flood tides and storms will impact the upcoming spring nesting season.

Lastly, being a Shorebird Steward provides me with an opportunity to increase awareness of the fragility of our shoreline habitat. While we welcome new neighbors and visitors, our very presence creates challenges for the natural world and its inhabitants. I try to kindly and with grace show others that it is possible to enjoy our wonderful island while respecting our bird inhabitants and their needs.

Sally Boudinot

If you are interested in becoming a Seabrook Island Shorebird Steward, please visit the SIB website and click on the Shorebird Stewards tab. Sign up with your spouse or a friend, or meet new friends during the upcoming training sessions. Send an email to SIBStewards@gmail.com to join the group or ask for more information. It is a rewarding experience that you will surely cherish.

-Submitted by SIB

(Image credit: SIB)

February is the month of love. You are going to love all the great activities we have planned for this month. There are four wonderful opportunities to bird off-island as well as several of our on-island favorites. Engage in one of the many chances to participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count and add your bird sightings to Audubon’s list. 

Be sure to attend our February 22 evening meeting to learn about the important role that Seabrook plays in the survival of our amazing Red Knots. 

Learning Together – Kiawah Preserve

When: Thursday, February 1, 2024, 9:00 – 11:00 am
Location: Meet at the parking lot by The Station at Freshfields at 8:00 am.
There is a limit of only 12 people, in three cars. Passes for Kiawah will be obtained the night before.
Cost:  Free for members, $10 per guest

We will walk through a well maintained trail through a variety of habitats including wetlands, a maritime forest, ponds and a waterway. There’s an observation tower for those who would like to do some climbing, and get a better view. Hopefully, we will see both full time residents such as Red-headed Woodpeckers and over wintering birds. In previous visits, we’ve seen the normal suspects plus Dark-eyed Juncos and Common Gallinules. For those interested, the day can be extended with a visit to Kiawah’s beach near the Ocean Course.

As always, be sure to bring your binoculars, hats, water and sunscreen.   

All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on Wednesday, January 31.  

Register here.

Beyond the Backyard to Mingo Point

When: Thursday, Feb. 8, 2:00 – 4:00 pm
Location: Meet at The Lake House parking lot, nearest to the lake.
Max: 10
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests

Join SIB for Birding and Biking to Mingo Point. This is a six mile round trip biking trip from The Lakehouse parking lot. It is very casual with many spots for birding. If you would  like to meet us at Mingo Point instead of riding, just let us know. Birders from beginners to advanced birders will enjoy the variety of birds found on this trip.  

As always, be sure to bring your binoculars/cameras, hats and sunscreen. Bring plenty to drink and a snack if desired. 

Please register no later than Feb.7, 2024.  All registrants will receive a confirmation letter the day prior to the event. If you need to cancel, please let us know so we can invite people on the waitlist.

Register here.

Beyond Our Backyard – Bear Island/Donnelly WMA

When: Saturday, Feb. 10, 5:30 am– 4:00 pm 
Location: Meet at SI real estate office to carpool at 5:30 am
                  (Meet at Mary’s pond at 7:00 am)
Max: None 
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests

If you have never been to Bear Island Wildlife Management Area (WMA) or to Donnelly WMA, you will not want to miss this opportunity – it’s well worth the 60-mile one-way trip!  Part of the ACE Basin, this area is perfect habitat for birds with ponds, rivers, salt marsh, freshwater marsh, mudflats, mixed pine-hardwood forest and farmland. Most of the birding is done by car with stops to get out and take short walks for viewing. Bear Island closes for hunting from November 1 – February 9 each year, so this is an early chance to visit for spring.  We hope the winter waterfowl will still be present including the Tundra Swan.  

Each person should bring their own lunch, snacks and beverages, as there are no restaurants (nor restrooms) in the area. Also, be sure to bring sunblock, bug spray, a hat, binoculars, camera and a scope if you have one. 

Please register no later than February 8. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter the day prior to the trip. If you need to cancel, please let us know so we can invite people on the waitlist to attend.

Register here.

February Movie, “Extraordinary Birder with Christian Cooper ”

When: Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at 4:00 pm 
Location:  In person at Oyster Catcher Community Center (if there are at least five people) and virtually via Zoom

“Life-long birder, Christian Cooper, takes us on a journey to dive into and discover the wild, wonderful and unpredictable world of birds. S1 E1 · Puerto Rico (Jun 17, 2023) Christian Cooper discovers the rare and colorful birdlife of Puerto Rico.”

To learn more about Christian Cooper, click here.

Register here.

Learning Together at North Beach

When: Friday, February 16, 2024, 1:00 – 3:30 pm
Location: Meet at boardwalk # 1 parking lot
Max: None 
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests

Join SIB to bird at Seabrook Island’s North Beach. This three-mile round trip walk travels from Boardwalk #1 to the tip of North Beach along Captain Sams Inlet as high tide approaches. Birders from beginners to advanced will enjoy the variety of birds found on North Beach. At this time, many different species of shorebirds rest and feed near the point or along the beach ridge near the beach’s pond. Along the way, we will explore the many different species that can be found in this unique area.

As always, be sure to bring your binoculars/cameras, hats and sunscreen. Bring a spotting scope if you have one. If you don’t have one, there should be spotting scopes available for viewing. Bring plenty to drink and a snack if desired. There are no facilities. We ask that all participants wear a mask when unable to social distance if they are not vaccinated.

Please register no later than February 14. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on February 15, the day prior to the trip. If you need to cancel, please let us know so we can invite people on the waitlist to attend.

Register here.

Great Backyard Bird Count

When: Sunday, February 18, 2024, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Location: Various locations around Seabrook Island
Max: 20
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests.

Connect to birds, nature, and each other!  Birds are everywhere, all the time, doing fascinating things. Join Audubon and SIB, February 16–19, 2024, when the world comes together for the love of birds.

You can also do your own birding and submit your findings. This birding can be any time (and as many times) between 12:01 am, February 16 through 11:59 pm, February 19.  

Audubon gives the following steps:
Step 1 – Decide where you will watch birds.
Step 2 – Watch birds for 15 minutes or more, at least once over the four days, February 16-19, 2024.
Step 3 – Count all the birds you see or hear within your planned time/location and use the best tool for sharing your bird sightings (either Merlin or eBird). If you use eBird, “share” your eBird list with SIB eBird so we can compile a list for all of Seabrook. If you don’t use eBird, please submit your list to SIB, and SIB will enter into your information into eBird.

SIB’s organized GBBC activities are on Sunday:

When: Sunday, February 18, 2024, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm 
Location:  Various locations around Seabrook Island
Max: 20
Cost: No cost to members, $10 to non-members

Join us in participating in Audubon’s Great Backyard Bird Count. The day will involve walks at various locations throughout the day. The schedule below allows for individuals to sign up for a portion of the day if the whole day is not of interest. We request you register for all sections you will be attending so we know if we should wait for you at any individual location.

Between locations listed below and as time permits, we will stop by members’ yards to see what they have at their feeders. Unfortunately, these will be unscheduled visits since the duration of each location below needs to be somewhat flexible based upon what’s being seen. We do provide you with an opportunity to enter your address if you’d like us to include you on our list.

– Maintenance Area /Equestrian Center, 8:00 – 9:30 am
We’ll start at the garden parking lot. We will walk through the club maintenance area and look over the fence to the retention ponds of the water treatment facility. In this area, we hope to see Hooded Mergansers, Buffleheads, Ruddy Ducks and songbirds and sparrows. From there, we will walk along the horse trail (or drive) to the equestrian center to see Starlings and Cowbirds plus numerous other birds that can be expected there.

– Palmetto Lake, 10:00 – 11:30 am
Join us to explore the birds around The Lake House and Palmetto Lake.  This is less than one mile of flat, paved walk around the lake.  

– Bobcat Trail and Six Ladies Trail, 1:00 – 2:30 pm
We will meet at the owners parking lot near boardwalk 1 and proceed to Bobcat Trail then Six Ladies Trail and back to the  parking lot. This walk provides a variety of habitats for our viewing pleasure. The Six Ladies Trail is over uneven terrain but those uncomfortable with that portion can return to the parking lot upon the completion of the Bobcat Trail portion.

– Jenkin’s Point, 3:00-5:00 pm
We will be exploring the birds seen along Jenkins Point lagoons and streets, including ducks, wading birds and shorebirds. Since this event will be primarily by car, it is appropriate for members with mobility issues. You could join us on your bicycle if you wish.

As we finish Jenkin’s Point, Deanna and Dan Forsythe will host a gathering with drinks and snacks where we can recap our day.  

For all walk events, bring sunblock, bug spray, a hat, water, snacks and binoculars.  

Please register no later than Thursday, February 15. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on Friday, February 16. If you need to cancel, please let us know so we can invite people on the waitlist to attend.

Register here.

Learning Together on Crooked Oaks Golf Course

When: Monday,February 19, 2024, 8:30 – 10:30 am
Location: Meet at the Island House (golf course parking lot next to Spinnaker Beach Houses) for ride along the golf course in golf carts
Max: 24 (If all seats in golf carts are used)
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests. Priority will be given to prior waitlisted & members

The Seabrook Island Club closes one course a day each week and allows SIB to use golf carts to travel the course to bird. Join us for a morning of birding by riding in golf carts for at least nine holes on Crooked Oaks golf course. We expect to see a large variety of birds including Egrets, Herons and birds of prey. We will also see and hear some of the smaller birds like Tufted Titmice, Eastern Bluebirds, Northern Cardinals, Carolina Wrens and some of the many warbler species. Since it is winter, we can also expect to see Eastern Phoebes, Northern Flickers, Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers, Belted Kingfishers, Double-crested Cormorants, Bald Eagles, and more!

As always, be sure to bring your binoculars/cameras, hats and sunscreen.  Water will be provided.  

Please register no later than Friday prior to the trip. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on Sunday, the day prior to the trip. If you need to cancel, please let us know so we can invite people on the waitlist to attend.

Register here.

South Carolina’s Critical Role in the Survival of Arctic Nesting Shorebirds with a focus on Red Knots

Speaker: Felicia Sanders, Supervisor Coastal Bird Conservation Project, South Carolina Department of Natural Resources

When: February 22, 7:00 pm 
Location: The Lake House, Live Oak Hall

• 7:00 pm – Registration & Refreshments
• 7:30 pm - Program
• 8:45 pm - Program ends

Register here.

Backyard Birding at Treeloft Trace

When: Sunday, February 25, 2024, 8:00 – 10:00 am
Location: 813 Treeloft Trace
Max: 12
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests.

Join SIB members Gina and Jeff Sanders  at their address 813 Treeloft Trace, Sunday, February 25. from 8:00-10:00 am. They have a mix of songbirds, wading birds and currently hooded mergansers and cormorants. Frequently, hawks, eagles and osprey can be seen over Tarpon Pond. Their backyard backs up to Tarpon Pond and overlooks the 16 fairway of Ocean Winds. Dress warm and come join us for morning birding. 

Bring  binoculars and bug spray.  

Register here.

-Submitted by SIB

(Image credit: SIB, National Geographic, SC Dept. of Natural Resources)

The birds will be flying in Live Oak Hall!

Be sure to register for this event which is expected to be sold out.

When: Tuesday, January 23, 2024, 7:00 pm
Location: Live Oak Hall at The Lake House

-Submitted by SIB

(Image credit: SIB)

Start the new year with a bang. Join SIB as we begin 2024 with some interesting birding trips as well as our most popular evening meeting. Also, the Center for Birds of Prey is returning with their educational program. Make sure your dues are up to date as this program will be a members only event. 

Beyond Our Backyard at Kiawah River

When: Sunday, January 7, 2024, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Meet at the “bridge” entering the property
Cost:  Free for members, $10 per guest

Here is an opportunity to check out birds that can be found on this varied habitat  property. We expect to see a large variety of birds including Double-crested Cormorants, Egrets, Herons, Osprey and other birds of prey. If we are lucky, we will see an eagle and osprey duel over a fish. We should also see and hear some of the smaller birds like Tufted Titmice, Eastern Bluebirds, and Northern Cardinals. We will drive to various locations on the property and then walk for better birding observations. Of course, this also gives us a chance to see this neighboring development.

As always, be sure to bring your binoculars, hats, water and sunscreen.   

Please register no later than Friday, January 5, 2024.  All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on the day prior to the event.

Register here.

January Movie, “Wild America – Season Two – Bird Watching”

(Episodes 9 and 10)

When: Tuesday, January 9, 2024 at 4:00 pm 
Location:  In person at Oyster Catcher Community Center (if there are at least five people) and virtually via Zoom

Birdwatching is one very popular way in which many people enjoy the wonder and fascination of our great American outdoors. More so than any other creatures, birds have captured the imagination of humans as they float on the wind, soar to great heights and make the world a more wonderful place.

Episode 9: “Woodies and Hoodies” – Two of the world’s most beautiful ducks are North American natives. The Wood Duck, or “Woody,” dabbles on plant life. The Hooded Merganser, or “Hoody”, dives for fish. Differences in lifestyles lead to amusing events when female Woodies and Hoodies lay eggs in each other’s nests. We watch as a mother Woody at Iroquois Wildlife Refuge tries to raise a mixed brood.

Episode 10: “Woodpeckers: Nature’s Hammerheads” – The ancients believed these birds were gods that could bring forth rain by tapping their bills. Woodpeckers cannot perform miracles, but they do know how to use their heads. Special adaptations enable them to whack away at tree trunks with extraordinary force in their quest for food and shelter. This high-powered hammering also benefits humans by destroying insect pests.

Register here.

Beyond Our Backyard – Botany Bay WMA Trailer Tour

When: Thursday, January 11, 2024, 8:30 am – 12:30 pm
Location: Botany Bay Rd, Edisto Island, South Carolina 
Max: 20
Carpool :  Meet at Seabrook Island real estate office at 6:45 am. The drive is approximately 90 minutes to the nature trail’s parking lot     
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests

Join SCDNR & ornithologist Craig Watson for a bird watching trailer tour throughout Botany Bay!

Enjoy the diverse bird population with SCDNR and renowned ornithologist Craig Watson for a bird watching trailer tour throughout the Botany Bay Wildlife Management Area (WMA). According to eBird, 108 species were seen here in January 2023…Hopefully we’ll see a significant subset of that. We had 54 species when we visited in March 2022.

Please note that this is a very remote area as it is a WMA and there are no facilities such as restrooms.

Details for the event:

• Trailer tour: The bird watching tour will take place on a trailer. If you cannot attend the entire length of the program, you can follow behind in your car. Due to limited space, all participants must RSVP.

• What to bring: Dress is casual. Check the weather report and dress appropriately as you will be outside. Other items to consider bringing include binoculars, hat, sunglasses, sunblock, bug spray and reusable water bottle.

• Weather: Tours are held rain or shine unless hazardous weather occurs.

• Parking: Once you enter into the gates of Botany Bay, please check your vehicle in at the front kiosk. Drive one mile up the road and meet at the “Check Station” (look for SCDNR truck & trailer)

Please register no later than January 8, 2024. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter the day prior to the event.  

Register here.

Learning Together at North Beach

When: Saturday, January 13, 2024, 9:00 am – 11:30 am
Location: Meet at boardwalk # 1 parking lot
Max: None 
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests

Join SIB to bird at Seabrook Island’s North Beach. This three-mile round trip walk travels from Boardwalk #1 to the tip of North Beach along Captain Sams Inlet as high tide approaches. Birders from beginners to advanced will enjoy the variety of birds found on North Beach. At this time, many different species of shorebirds rest and feed near the point or along the beach ridge near the beach’s pond. Along the way, we will explore the many different species that can be found in this unique area.

As always, be sure to bring your binoculars/cameras, hats and sunscreen. Bring a spotting scope if you have one. If you don’t have one, there should be spotting scopes available for viewing. Bring plenty to drink and a snack if desired. There are no facilities. We ask that all participants wear a mask when unable to social distance if they are not vaccinated.

Please register no later than January 11. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on January 12, the day prior to the trip. If you need to cancel, please let us know so we can invite people on the waitlist to attend.

Register here.

Learning Together on Crooked Oaks Golf Course

When: Monday, January 15, 2024  8:30 am – 10:30 am
Location: Meet at the Island House (golf course parking lot next to Spinnaker Beach Houses) for ride along the golf course in golf carts
Max: 24 (If all seats in golf carts are used)
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests. Priority will be given to prior waitlisted & members

The Seabrook Island Club closes one course a day each week and allows SIB to use golf carts to travel the course to bird. Join us for a morning of birding by riding in golf carts for at least nine holes on Crooked Oaks golf course. We expect to see a large variety of birds including Egrets, Herons and birds of prey. We will also see and hear some of the smaller birds like Tufted Titmice, Eastern Bluebirds, Northern Cardinals, Carolina Wrens and some of the many warbler species. Since it is winter, we can also expect to see Eastern Phoebes, Northern Flickers, Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers, Belted Kingfishers, Double-crested Cormorants, Bald Eagles, and more!

As always, be sure to bring your binoculars/cameras, hats and sunscreen.  Water will be provided.  

Please register no later than Friday prior to the trip. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on Sunday, the day prior to the trip. If you need to cancel, please let us know so we can invite people on the waitlist to attend.

Register here.

Beyond Our Backyard – Pitt Street Causeway to Watermark Lake

When: Monday, Jan. 22, 9:00 am– 4:00 pm 
Location: Meet at SI real estate office to carpool at 9:00 am
                  (Meet at Pitt Street Causeway at 10:00 am)
Max: 10
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests. Priority will be given to prior waitlisted & members

We are trying something new. Pitt Street Causeway offers a good view of saltwater marsh in Charleston Harbor where we can see shorebirds and ducks. After spending time at Pitt Street, we will go to a local restaurant near Shem Creek for a warm lunch. After lunch, we will take a quick walk on the Shem Creek boardwalk before heading to Watermark Lake, a great spot to find ducks of many species like Lesser Scaup, Canvasback, and Ring-necked Duck. Bring binoculars, camera and a scope if you have one. 

Please register no later than January 20, 2024.  All registrants will receive a confirmation letter the day prior to the event.  

Register here.

Save the Date – Birds of Prey

Presented by: Avian Conservation Center – Center for Birds of Prey

When: Tuesday, January 23, 2024, 7:00 pm

Where: Live Oak Room at The Lake House

-Submitted by SIB

(Image credit: SIB, Wild America, Center for Birds of Prey)

Santa Claus is coming to town, and our winter birds will help Rudolph lead the way. Join Seabrook Island Birders for some December fun!

Beyond Our Backyard: Lighthouse Inlet

When: Thursday, December 7, 2023, 9:30 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Meet at Seabrook Island Real Estate to carpool at 8:30 am or
meet at meet at Lighthouse Inlet at 9:30 am
Max: 10 
Cost:  Free for members, $10 per guest

Join SIB for a “Beyond our Backyard” visit to the incredibly diverse northeast end of Folly Island at Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve. Once the home of a Coast Guard station, this Heritage Preserve protects maritime forest, beach, dune, and marsh habitats for wildlife. This is a flat and easy  0.8-mile out-and-back walk that leads to the Morris Island Lighthouse. We will also be exploring the inlet area beach and marsh for a further 1.0 mile along a beach path and beach. At this time of year, we hope to see Savannah Sparrow, Cedar Waxwing, Gray Catbird, Sedge Wren, Red-Breasted Nuthatch, Ruby Crowned Kinglet, Eastern phoebe, Northern Harrier, dabbling ducks such as Red Breasted Merganser off shore, and a variety of sea birds and shorebirds.

Note there are no bathrooms at this location. Parking is along East Ashley Avenue.

A lunch option at one of Folly’s many restaurants will be determined later.

Travel details:

From Center Street, turn left onto East Ashley Avenue and follow this road to where it ends at a cul-de-sac.

Address:
Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve
1750 East Ashley Ave.
Folly Beach

Please register no later than December 5, 2023.  All registrants will receive a confirmation letter the day prior to the trip

Register here.

Learning Together on Ocean Winds Golf Course

When: Monday, December 11, 2023, 8:30 am – 10:30 am
Location: Meet at The Island House (golf course parking lot next to Spinnaker beach houses) for ride along the golf course in golf carts
Max: 24 (If all seats in golf carts are used) 
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests – Priority will be given to prior waitlisted and members

The Seabrook Island Club closes one course a day, each week and allows SIB to use golf carts to travel the course to bird. Join us for a morning of birding by riding in golf carts for at least 9-holes on Ocean Winds golf course. We expect to see a large variety of birds including Egrets, Herons and birds of prey. We will also see and hear some of the smaller birds like Tufted Titmice, Eastern Bluebirds, Northern Cardinals, Carolina Wrens and some of the many warbler species. Since it is fall/winter, we can also expect to see Eastern Phoebes, Northern Flickers, Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers, Belted Kingfishers, Double-crested Cormorants, Bald Eagles, and more!

As always, be sure to bring your binoculars/cameras, hats and sunscreen.  Water will be provided.  

Please register no later than Friday prior to the trip. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on Sunday, the day prior to the trip. If you need to cancel, please let us know so we can invite people on the waitlist to attend.

Register here.

December Movie, “Wild America – Season Two – Bird Watching”

(Episodes 7 and 8)

When: Tuesday, December 12, 2023 at 4:00 pm 
Location:  In person at Oyster Catcher Community Center (if there are at least five people) and virtually via Zoom

Birdwatching is one very popular way in which many people enjoy the wonder and fascination of our great American outdoors. More so than any other creatures, birds have captured the imagination of humans as they float on the wind, soar to great heights and make the world a more wonderful place.

Episode 7: “Owls: Lords of Darkness” – The Owl’s incredible sight and hearing are second to none in the animal world, and its ability to fly with utter soundlessness is nothing short of remarkable. Its life history is endlessly intriguing. The eighteen species of North American Owls are creatures of mystery. Owls are undisputed champions of the Birds of Prey. They reign — as they have for ages — lords of darkness.

Episode 8: “Wild Wings”- America’s birds come in all shapes and sizes, and they range from homely to breathtaking. But they share one thing in common — the awesome power of flight. The airborne freedom which sets birds apart from other creatures has been envied by man for centuries. All the diverse bird types are seen — powerful predators, melodious songbirds, and graceful water birds.”

Register here.

Backyard Birding at the Boat Ramp/Crab Dock

When: Monday, December 18, 2023,  8:00 am – 10:00 am
Location: 1201 Creekwatch Trace
Max: 12        
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests 

Join SIB members near the home of Melanie and Robert Jerome at the boat ramp on Creek Watch Trace on Seabrook Island on Monday, December 18 at 8:00 am -10:00 am. Yes, we are starting that early. You will have views of the marsh and river, with many shore birds, Spotted Sandpipers, Egrets, Herons, Marsh Wrens, and many songbirds.  There is a lot to see at the SIPOA boat ramp and crab dock. Low tide will be 5:52 am. The marsh by the fire station may have some additional birds. There will be seats available to sit and bird or a group can go walking. Just start out by walking back to the Jerome’s backyard.

Bring  binoculars and bug spray.  

Please register no later than December 15, 2023. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on Sunday December 17.  

Register here.

-Submitted by SIB

(Image credit: SIB, Wild America)

Fall migration, arrival of winter residents and much more to be thankful for.  Join SIB for activities on Seabrook or beyond our backyard.

Beyond Our Backyard: Santee Coastal WMA

When: Sunday, November 5, 2023, 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: Meet at Seabrook Island Real Estate to carpool at 6:30 am or
meet at Sewee Outpost at 4853 Hwy 17, Awendaw, SC to buy breakfast, lunch and to use restrooms before proceeding to the reserve.
Dinner option after birding: Location TBD 
Max: 16 for the morning half-day portion, eight for the whole-day afternoon option  
Cost:  Free for members, $10 per guest

Join SIB to bird at Santee Coastal Reserve Wildlife Management Area (WMA), a 24,000 acre tract, operated by the SC Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and The Nature Conservancy (TNC), rich in  different habitats including long-leaf pine, bottomland swamp, upland hardwoods and former rice impoundments. The area was originally inhabited by the Sewee and the Winyah tribes. Then, several rice plantations were established here in the 1700’s.  Today, you can still see the brick ruins of the Eldorado plantation house on a hike through the upland hardwoods. In 1898, Captain Hugh Garden established the Santee Gun Club upon his acquisition of these rice plantations. Finally in 1974, the Santee Gun Club donated the property to TNC who then transferred most of it to the state of SC for management by DNR.  

Of course, a variety of habitats translates to a variety of birdlife.  On this trip, we will focus our efforts on two habitats. In the morning, we will bird the long-leaf pine forest to find the federally-listed endangered Red-cockaded Woodpecker (RCW) and, hopefully, Bachman’s Sparrow and then, in the afternoon, we will bird the entrance to the impoundments to observe multiple early arriving duck species.  

The long entrance road runs through the middle of the long-leaf pine forest in which we will find the RCWs. Our birding here will be roadside. In addition to the RCWs, we will listen for owls. Other species we may see this time of year are the Blue-headed vireo, Brown-headed Nuthatch, White-breasted Nuthatch, raptors, Pine Warbler, Eastern Bluebird, Song Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow, Chipping Sparrow, Swamp Sparrow, Eastern Towhee, and possibly all of the other seven species of woodpeckers in SC.  Other possibilities include Yellow-throated Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Black-and-white Warbler, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, , House Wren, Sedge Wren, Red-breasted Nuthatch, if we are lucky.  

The Cape Trail impoundments are closed to the public from November 1 to February 9 every year. When a group visited in May, we were able to see a number of species as we walked the entrance to this area. The mosquitoes should not be a problem this time of year making for pleasant birding. In May, when all the ducks were gone, we were still able to report 53 species.

As always, be sure to bring your binoculars/cameras, hats, sunscreen and bug spray. Bring plenty to drink and a picnic lunch to eat on the property. There are no facilities on the property.

Please register no later than November 3, 2023.  All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on November 4, the day prior to the trip

Register here.

Evening Program: Learn How to Catch a Kiwi and so Much More

Speaker: Dr. Kristina Ramstad, Associate Professor, Vertebrate Biology, University of South Carolina Aiken

When: November 10, 2023, 7:00 pm
Location:  The Lake House, Live Oak Hall
Cost: Free for members, $10 for guests 

• 7:00 pm, Registration and refreshments
• 7:30 pm, Program
• 8:45 pm, Program ends

Program Description:

The geologic history of New Zealand has given rise to a myriad of unusual species that are found nowhere else on Earth. In this talk, Dr Ramstad will tell you about the historical and current ecology of New Zealand and the flightless endemic kiwi. She will present her research into inbreeding and sex-biased dispersal in the two rarest kiwi species and answer the age old question….How do you catch a kiwi?

Speaker Biography:

Dr Ramstad is a conservation geneticist. Her work draws on genomic techniques and field based ecological studies to improve our understanding and management of at-risk species.

After studying sockeye salmon in Alaska for both her MSc (University of Washington) and PhD (University of Montana) research, Dr Ramstad moved to New Zealand and spent eight years studying conservation genetics of kiwi. She took up her current role at USCA in 2015 and will tell you that her current research obsession is with the wood storks of the steamy and mysterious swamps of the US South.

Register here.

November Movie, “Wild America – Season Two – Bird Watching ”

(Episodes 5 and 6)

When: Tuesday, November 14, 2023 at 4:00 pm 
Location:  In person at Oyster Catcher Community Center (if there are at least five people) and virtually via Zoom

Birdwatching is one very popular way in which many people enjoy the wonder and fascination of our great American outdoors. More so than any other creatures, birds have captured the imagination of humans as they float on the wind, soar to great heights and make the world a more wonderful place.

Episode 5: Feathered Jewels – The fifteen species of hummingbirds that nest north of Mexico are exquisitely beautiful in their multi-colored iridescence. All are unique to the New World. European explorers were astounded by these tiny, glittering birds that zipped up and down, backwards and sideways, with wings humming and blurred. Here they are seen as never before, and we savor every last little wingbeat.

Episode 6: A Nest is Best – A bird does not need a house to make itself a happy home. They can be cup-shaped, or long and hollow, like gourds. They can be coarsely made of sticks and mud, or exquisitely woven of spider web and down. They can be found anywhere, deftly hidden or dangerously exposed. Even the eggs that fill them are not always egg-shaped. This program shows that birds do not need a house to make a home.”

Register here.

Learning Together on Ocean Winds Golf Course

When: Monday, November 13, 2023, 8:30 am – 10:30 am
Location: Meet at The Island House (golf course parking lot next to Spinnaker beach houses) for ride along the golf course in golf carts
Max: 24 (If all seats in golf carts are used) 
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests – Priority will be given to prior waitlisted and members

The Seabrook Island Club closes one course a day, each week and allows SIB to use golf carts to travel the course to bird. Join us for a morning of birding by riding in golf carts for at least 9-holes on Ocean Winds golf course. We expect to see a large variety of birds including Egrets, Herons and birds of prey. We will also see and hear some of the smaller birds like Tufted Titmice, Eastern Bluebirds, Northern Cardinals, Carolina Wrens and some of the many warbler species. Since it is fall/winter, we can also expect to see Eastern Phoebes, Northern Flickers, Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers, Belted Kingfishers, Double-crested Cormorants, Bald Eagles, and more!

As always, be sure to bring your binoculars/cameras, hats and sunscreen.  Water will be provided.  

Please register no later than Friday prior to the trip.  All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on the Sunday, the day prior to the trip. If you need to cancel, please let us know so we can invite people on the waitlist to attend.

Register here.

Learning Together – Walk to Freshfields 

When: Monday, November 20, 2023,  3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Location: Meet at The Lake House parking lot close to the lake
Max: 20         
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests 

Join SIB for birding and a walk to Freshfields. Everyone may have not noticed yet, but the path to Freshfields has been spruced up a bit. There are new benches and flowers planted along the way. There are plenty of trees and birding opportunities. Birders from beginners to advanced will enjoy the variety of birds found along the way. You never know what bird will show up. We will look for our winter residents. We could see the ruby-crowned kinglet, yellow-bellied sapsucker and more. 

As always, be sure to bring your binoculars/cameras, hats and sunscreen. Bring a spotting scope if you have one. Bring plenty to drink and a snack if desired. There is a possibility that we may hit the construction going on at Freshfields, so we will just turn around and walk on the other side of the road. 

Please register no later than November 15, 2023. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter the day prior to the event.  

Register here.

Learning Together: Walk off the Bird at Camp St. Christopher

When: Friday, November 24, 2023, 8:00 am-11:00 am
Location:  Meet at the bus parking lot at St. Christopher
Max:  10
Cost: Voluntary donation to Camp St.Christopher

Come walk off the  bird by doing some birding!!! Explore the lakes, lagoons, paths and slough at St. Christopher. This event will have one to two miles of walking over uneven terrain. We  should see all the usual suspects but will also hopefully see some of our winter friends-Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Northern Flicker, Yellow-rumped Warbler and sparrows.

Bring sun block, bug spray, a hat, water and binoculars.  We are asking our attendees to make a voluntary contribution to Camp St. Christopher to help support their efforts after a few trying years.

Please register no later than Wednesday, November 22, 2023.  All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on Thursday, November 23, 2023.  If you need to cancel, please let us know.

Register here.

-Submitted by SIB

(Image credit: SIB, Wild America)