HUNTINGTON BEACH STATE PARK Saltwater marshes, sandy beaches and dunes, coastal forests and shrub thickets draw more than 300 bird species to this state park in Murrells Inlet, one of the top birding sites on the East Coast. Before exploring the nature trails and observation decks, stop by the park’s education center to pick up a birding checklist. Roseate Spoonbill Platalea ajaja Nope, it’s not a flamingo! These wading birds may tout dramatic, bright-pink plumage, but their distinctive spoon-shaped bill and bald, gray head sets them apart. Spot them in inland marshes and tidal ponds. CHERAW STATE PARK With dense forests of longleaf pines, blackjack oaks and hickory trees, as well as a cypress swamp along Lake Juniper, this state park in Cheraw is home to an endangered woodpecker and a variety of waterfowl. Also, spot unique wildflowers such as sweet pitcher plants, hunter’s cups and rose pogonia orchids. Red-Cockaded Woodpecker Dryobates borealis This small, black-and-white speckled bird has a black head, white cheek patch and a small red streak (males). See them in or near their nesting area when you take the short spur trail off Cheraw Nature and Turkey Oak Trails. Roseate Spoonbill Double-Crested Cormorant Nannopterum auritum This dark-feathered diving bird has striking blue eyes, a long body and a yellow, hooked bill. Its diet is mostly fish, crabs, shrimp and crayfish. Double Crested Cormorant ST. PHILLIPS ISLAND From the basecamp of Coastal Expeditions Beaufort on St. Helena Island, hop on a naturalist-led boat tour for a day trip to nearby St. Phillips Island, an undeveloped barrier island with untamed wilderness and a range of natural habitats. Painted Bunting Passerina ciris In brushy and woodland areas, these small, vibrant birds stand out with a dazzling blue head, red throat and body, and green and black wings (male) or an all-yellow-green body (females). Great Egret Ardea alba This tall, white, elegant bird features a long neck, black legs and a spear-like, yellow beak. See them wading through shallow waters in marshes and lagoons hunting for fish. Great Egret Brown Pelican Pelecanus occidentalis Brown Pelican Stroll along the beach to see this large, gray-brown seabird with a pale-yellow head and bill. They dive dramatically into the ocean and use their distinctive throat pouch to scoop up fish, which they swallow whole. Download the Digital Guide Scan the QR code for our free digital guide to South Carolina's hottest birding regions and species counts. DiscoverSouthCarolina.com 49
South Carolina Vacation Guide SC 2025: Page 49
