Birding in Cape Romain


Cape Romain and Bulls Island hosts nearly 300 species of migratory and resident bird species, including many "life list" birds like long-billed curlew, American avocet and white pelican.  The wildlife refuge is specifically managed for the habitat and preservation of endangered or threatened species like American oystercatchers and wood storks.

Large freshwater impoundments on the interior of Bulls Island make this refuge a vital part of the Atlantic Flyway, and throughout the winter and spring these ponds are covered with ducks and other waterfowl.

Wild Bird magazine listed this refuge as one of the United States top 50 places for birding, and we host birders from around the world through our ferry service, signature birding expeditions and private charters.  If you are interested in exploring Bulls Island and want to focus on birding or spotting a particular species, call us and set up a charter to the island with one of our well-trained and passionate naturalists.  We will tailor a trip that is specific to your group to make your outing perfect.

This pristine wilderness, unchanged since the days that Audubon and Catesby explored this island, is a haven for waterfowl, raptors, songbirds, shore birds and pelagic species.  Bulls Island is Charleston's last wilderness, and the combination of fresh and salt water, maritime forest, beach and marsh make this 5000-acre island the ideal birding destination.

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Audubon and White Pelicans at Bulls Island
“My friend John Bachman, in a note to me, says that 'this bird is now more rare on our coast than it was thirty years ago; for I have heard it stated that it formerly bred on the sand banks of our Bird Islands. I saw a flock on the Bird Banks of Bulls Island, on the 1st day of July 1814, when I procured two full-plumaged old birds, and was under the impression that they had laid eggs on one of those banks, but the latter had....been overflowed by a spring tide'."

AUDUBON, 1838, Ornithological Biography, Vol. IV








Throughout the year, we offer birding trips in Cape Romain and Bulls Island.  These trips are designed for all skill levels and offer unmatched opportunities to spot birds in their natural habitats.  If you are interested in joining us on an expedition, please
e-mail or call us so we can let you know about upcoming trips.


 

 

Our trained naturalists are capable of taking you or your group to find elusive birds like Long-billed Curlews and American Avocets.  Let us tailor a trip specific to your group's needs. Since 1992, we've hosted birders from throughout the world and are well-equipped to handle your outing. Chartered trips with a naturalist-trained captain can be arranged for as low as $40 per person.

 

One of the top 200 birding hotspots in the United States
Birding.com