Bird Watching in Charleston
When I was going through medical treatment 20 years ago, I found myself on the sofa most of the day. I started watching birds at the feeders in my backyard and developed a love of bird watching that continues today. “Birds of the Carolinas Field Guide” by Stan Tekiela has a checklist in the back for noting new sightings. I also downloaded the Merlin App, which can identify the birds singing nearby as I sit on my back porch. It's official: I am a "bird nerd."
Charleston is such a wonderful place to watch birds. We are located in the Atlantic FlyWay which is a migratory route for many species. There is an exceptional array of viewing opportunities where coastal, marsh, and woodland habitats converge. From the pristine barrier islands to the expansive salt marshes, the region hosts both year round residents and seasonal migrants that make it a premier destination for birding.
The Francis Marian Forest, just north of Charleston, provides an extraordinary opportunity to spot the endangered red cockaded woodpecker. These rare birds require mature pine forests for nesting and the forest’s protected longleaf pine ecosystem offers one of the best chances to observe them in their natural habitat.
The Ace Basin, one of the largest undeveloped estuaries on the Atlantic Coast, presents an unparalleled wetland viewing experience. This vast wilderness hosts impressive populations of Wood Storks, Roseate Spoonbills, and various Herons and Egrets.
Folly Beach’s North End, particularly the area around the Morris Island Lighthouse, serves as a crucial resting point for migrating shore boards during spring and fall migrations. Birders can spot Piping Plovers, Red Knots, and Whimbrells probing the sand for food.
Sullivan Island's protected maritime forest offers a unique opportunity to observe songbird migrations, particularly during spring when Warblers, Tanagers and Thrushes rest in the dense vegetation before continuing their northward journey.
For a more urban experience, Magnolia Cemetery’s ancient live oaks and quiet ponds attract a surprising variety of species. The cemetery’s yellow crowned night herons have become local celebrities, nesting in the spanish moss draped trees.
Just south of Charleston is the Caw Caw Interpretive center, which provides 6 miles of nature trails for viewing bald eagles, swallow tailed kites, prothonotary warblers and painted buntings.
Grab a comfortable pair of shoes and your best binoculars and give bird watching a try. You won’t be disappointed!
