Birding in South Carolina
Bring your binoculars and your birding list. South Carolina's many varied habitats are home to diversity of birdlife unmatched by many larger Atlantic States. 
With over 375 species, birders from around the world flock to South Carolina to view migrating coastal birds, Bachman's sparrow, Swainson's warbler, swallow-tailed kite, Mississippi kite, red-cockaded woodpecker, painted bunting and other remarkable birds.
South Carolina Habitats
The swamps and streams, maritime hardwood forest, upland pine stands, urban areas and agricultural tracts of the Palmetto State provide habitats for species as varied as the abundant Carolina wren, the endangered wood stork, the tiny ruby-throated hummingbird and even the majestic bald eagle.
Premier Birding Destinations
With such great birding destinations as the Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge, Huntington Beach State Park and Caesars Head, you won't find better birding on the Atlantic Coast of America. Guided field studies offer birders access to areas not regularly open to the public.
Use the links and South Carolina birding listings below for more information on birding in South Carolina. Click on a birding destination for more information on that location.
Useful Links:
Birding Checklists:
2007 Birding Programs:
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The National Audubon Society's Francis Beidler Forest in Four Holes Swamp contains within its 15,000 acres, the largest remaining stand of virgin Bald Cypress/Tupelo Gum swamp forest left anywhere in the world. One thousand year-old trees and native wildlife abound in this pristine sanctuary that has been untouched for a millennia. A 1.75 mile self-guided boardwalk trail (handicapped accessible) allows visitors the chance to safely venture deep into the heart of the swamp...to see it the way nature intended! Canoe trips and naturalist guided walks and programs also are available seasonally and by reservation.
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 Harleyville |
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A stretch of barrier islands and salt marshes that make up one of the nation's most outstanding wildlife refuges. The 66,000-acre refuge is a true wilderness experience. A contracted tour boat leaves several times a week from Garris Landing for a day-trip to Bulls Island. The Sewee Visitor and Environmental Education Center at 5821 Hwy 17 N in Awendaw is operated jointly by Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge and the Francis Marion National Forest. The center includes exhibits about the forest and refuge, a film, live red wolves and interpretive trails.
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 Awendaw |
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The endangered red-cockaded woodpecker is among the many species of flora and fauna found on this 45,348-acre national wildlife refuge. Two observation towers, a photography blind and an interpretive display/nature study panels also are available here. Other amenities include hiking trails, an auto tour route, and a recreation area.
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 McBee |
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Cathedral Bay is an excellent example of the Carolina bay phenomenon. Carolina bays are elliptical or oval basins found throughout the Atlantic Coastal Plain. The vast majority of these features are found within North Carolina and South Carolina. Along with their unusual shape, bays have several other features in common.
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 Olar |
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This vast, 650-acre park is rich in natural, cultural & historical resources. Once part of a 5,500-acre 1700s rice plantation, enslaved Africans applied their technology and skills in agriculture to carve a highly successful series of rice fields out of this vast cypress swamp. The site features seven miles of historical and interpretive trails, an Interpretive Center with displays and exhibits on rice cultivation, and a wildlife sanctuary with seven distinct habitats located on the property. Bikes and dogs are not allowed.
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Ravenel |
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Congaree National Park preserves the largest remnant of old-growth floodplain forest remaining on the continent! Experience national and state champion trees, towering to record size amidst an astonishing array of plants and animals. In addition to being a designated Wilderness Area, an International Biosphere Reserve, a Globally Important Bird Area and a National Natural Landmark, Congaree is home to a museum quality exhibit area within the Harry Hampton Visitor Center, a 2.4 mile boardwalk loop trail and over 20 miles of backcountry hiking trails. The park also hosts a wide variety of guided walks, canoe tours, talks and presentations offered throughout the year (visit the website for more information). Other popular activities within the park include backpacking, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, birding, nature study… and more! Before you embark on your adventures, stop by the Harry Hampton Visitor Center to pick up a map and brochure, watch the introductory film and get the latest information about conditions in the park.
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 Hopkins |
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On Jan. 17, 1781, the Americans won a decisive battle against the better-trained British Army. The battle was over in less than an hour. This victory gave the Patriots the moral support needed to continue fighting and win the Revolution just nine months later. Featured at the battlefield is a walking trail and marked road tour, a picnic ground, and a visitor center with exhibits, memorabilia and a multi-image presentation.
The British sustained one of the worst disasters of their Southern campaign, and the Patriots finally defeated "Bloody" Tarleton. General Daniel Morgan displayed brilliant tactics in the disposition of his forces, making effective use of both militia and Continental troops to envelop and rout the British. Most of Tarleton's army were killed or captured, and the rest fled. The Battle of Cowpens was the event which started Cornwallis on his road to Yorktown.
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 Gaffney |
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The 350,000-acre ACE Basin Project is one of the largest undeveloped estuaries on the East Coast, named for the Ashepoo, Combahee and Edisto rivers, The 11,815 acre Ernest F. Hollings ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge is a portion of the ACE Basin Project. The refuge is home to abundant wildlife and serves as a habitat for many species, such as wood storks, bald eagles, white tailed deer, wild turkeys, alligators, painted buntings, and various others. Portions of the refuge may be closed for safety in late fall during public hunt days. Call for dates.
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Hollywood |
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Fort Sumter memorializes one of the defining moments in America's past. The first shots of the Civil War were fired here. The preserved national monument is under the management of the National Park Service. Tour boats depart from Liberty Square in downtown Charleston, which is handicapped accessible, and Patriots Point in Mt. Pleasant. If taking the boat tour from Liberty Square, don't miss visiting the Fort Sumter Education Center located at the square.
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Charleston |
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Site of the battle between forces of British Col. Banastre Tarleton and Revolutionary Gen. Francis Marion, "The Swamp Fox." Now this wildlife-rich 260,000-acre forest welcomes campers, hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, kayakers, and picnickers. OHV opportunities are found at the Wambaw Cycle Trail.
BUCK HALL RECREATION AREA - Day-use facilities includes trailhead parking, boaters, fishermen, picnickers and any other non-camping use in the area. Picnic Shelter first come; first served or by reservation ($25 for groups up to 50) ($45 for groups 51-100.) Parking fee is required for all parked vehicles in area. Ten full hook-up and three tent sites must be reserved through RESERVEUSA.COM or by calling 877-444-6777; a $9 reservation fee will be added to all reservations.
WAMBAW CYCLE TRAIL - 40 mile motorcycle, OHV and mountain bike trail. $5/operator/day fee. Trailhead located off Halfway Creek Rd.
Call before you Haul Hotline 803-561-4025 or check the website for up-to-date information.
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McClellanville |
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