Through The Eyes Of The Seabrook Island Birders

Experience the Breathtaking Beauty of the Diverse Bird Species that Call Seabrook Island Home.

Judy Morr, a passionate member of the Seabrook Island Birders (SIB) group, was recently asked about the reason behind the group’s 300+ members. She explained that it’s not just about bird watching but also about learning and protecting these beautiful creatures, socializing, and educating others about the importance of preserving the natural environment.

It became apparent that Judy’s love for bird beauty fueled her desire to learn about each bird’s unique characteristics, making her an esteemed member of SIB. She is a zealous scavenger hunter, always looking up to spot rare, unique, and stunning birds, challenging herself to see how many birds she can spot on any given day. Birdwatching isn’t just a hobby for Judy; it’s a way of life that brings joy, wonder, and a connection to the world around her. Her dedication to the community has kept her actively engaged in the group for many years. Her passion has earned her a spot on SIB’s Standing Committee of Communications, where she shares her love and knowledge of these awe-inspiring species through her writings while educating and inspiring others to appreciate these incredible creatures.

Judy and other enthusiasts of SIB always look for new opportunities to gain knowledge and experience. They organize monthly birding activities such as bird walks on Seabrook Island and Johns Island, birding in their backyards, birding in the golf course, and birding beyond their neighborhood. By participating in these activities, one can not only learn about the birds that inhabit South Carolina and Seabrook Island but also make new friends and capture some beautiful photographs.

As you scroll through their social media feeds, you’ll quickly discover that Seabrook Island Birders collectively have an irresistible passion for capturing the beauty of birds through their lenses. Their posts feature breathtaking images that transport you to the fascinating world of these majestic creatures. From the intricate details of their feathers to the awe-inspiring landscapes they inhabit, every picture tells a unique story that will leave you in awe. 

If you’re interested in learning about the birds of Seabrook Island, their social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram and their website blogs are great resources. The content is rich and engaging and covers various topics, from migration patterns to the unique features of various bird species, such as their beaks or wingspans. You’ll also find helpful information on differentiating between similar-looking birds, such as the Palm Warbler and the Yellow-rumped Warbler.

The Seabrook Island Birders is a community of passionate bird enthusiasts that boasts a membership of over 300 individuals residing both on and off Seabrook Island. Becoming a member is easy and affordable, and it provides access to a wealth of exciting activities, including regular bird walks and quarterly evening membership meetings. These meetings offer engaging talks from top-notch speakers and educational programs, making them informative and enjoyable. The meetings also allow members to socialize and make new connections with like-minded individuals who share their love for birds. In addition to the membership, they have the Seabrook Island Birders Shorebird Stewards Program and the Seabrook Island Bluebird Society.

Seabrook Island Birders Shorebird Stewards Program

The Shorebird Stewards Program honors Seabrook Island’s promise to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the S.C. Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) to protect the birds that needed sustenance from the beaches. The Shorebird Stewards Program calls for volunteers to step up and help spread awareness about the vital role the sanctuary plays in the lives of shorebirds who visit it. The efforts are not intended to be punitive but rather to enlighten and educate.

To Learn More About the Stewards Program >>> Click Here

Seabrook Island Bluebird Society (SIBS)

The Eastern Bluebirds are fascinating creatures that show a strong preference for nesting in boxes with oval-shaped entrances. They are specific about the dimensions of the entrance, which measures 2 inches in height and 1 3/8 inches in width. Interestingly, they often return to the same nesting site year after year. Nestled in the tranquil Seabrook Island lies the Eastern Bluebird Trails, a sprawling network of 71 nesting boxes strategically placed across Ocean Winds golf course, Crooked Oaks golf course, and the Lakehouse. These nesting boxes are thoughtfully positioned in suitable habitats to provide the Eastern Bluebirds with a safe and conducive environment for breeding. The breeding season, which spans from March to August, sees up to three cycles per season from a single Eastern Bluebird pair. It is paramount to monitor the bluebirds’ progress during the season by keeping a keen eye on the nesting boxes. These beautiful birds are dependent on a group of dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly to monitor and protect their precious nesting sites, ensuring their continued survival and well-being. 

Learn More About SIBS and Volunteer Opportunities >> Click Here

Dedicated To Protecting

The Seabrook Island Club and the Seabrook Island Birders Group are dedicated to protecting the rich wildlife and habitats that thrive in our surroundings. Seabrook Island has been recognized as an Audubon International Sustainable Community. Seabrook Island North Beach holds the prestigious designation of Critical Habitat by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. As a Critical Habitat, it is indispensable in preserving rare and endangered species, making it an integral part of our community’s identity. 

To protect our habitats, please follow these birding guidelines:

• Give the wildlife space. Human presence can unsettle wild animals, even when used by admirers. Give the birds space so they don’t feel threatened—if they move away or take flight when they see you, you’re too close.
• Use artificial light sparingly. Flash photography can be stressful to wild animals and even affect their close-range vision. Use natural light as often as possible, and only use flash from a distance.
• Follow the dog restriction rules. Seabrook Island Beach has Restricted, Limited, and General areas for dogs. The Critical Habitat is Restricted, meaning dogs are never allowed, and the Limited Restricted area on the South Beach requires dogs to be leashed at all times. Dogs can be off-leash in the General area during cooler months, with designated off-leash times during the peak season.
• Please keep it clean. Take all of your trash with you, clean up after your dog, and leave the habitats looking just the way you found them.

Membership Opportunities

You are welcome to discover the hidden wonders of a private oceanfront community with over 300 passionate birdwatchers. Memberships are open to residents on and off the island to witness the magic of nature that surrounds us daily.

Learn More About Seabrook Island Birders and Membership >> Click Here

Join A Bird Walk >> Click Here