Shorebird Celebration Week
March 9-14, 2026
Join us throughout the South Carolina coast to learn, celebrate, and ultimately protect our shorebirds! Various kinds of events, programs, celebrations, and outreach initiatives are taking place over the span of the week and across a mutltitude of venues. Whether you are a passionate birder or new to the world of coastal wildlife, all are welcome to join in on the events below to dive into the world of shorebirds and the critical role that South Carolina plays throughout their lifecycle.
Yawkey Wildlife Center Birding and Photography Outing
March 9 & 10, 2026, 10:00am-2:00pm
At theTom Yawkey Wildlife Center
Join Molly McNeill, Education and Outreach Coordinator at SCDNR’s Tom Yawkey Wildlife Center, on a four-hour birding and photography field trip. The Yawkey Wildlife Center provides important habitat for many species of birds and waterfowl, as well as other wildlife! This trip will visit various habitats, including brackish marshes and managed wetlands. Make sure to bring your camera and binoculars! Field trips are limited to 14 participants. Participants should be prepared to cross the Intracoastal Waterway via pontoon boat, as well as multiple short walks on relatively even ground. Bring a bag lunch and drink. Call 843-546-6814 or email whamp@dnr.sc.gov to reserve your spot!
Event hosted by SCDNR Tom Yawkey Wildlife Center
Bird Trivia-Shorebird Edition
March 10, 2026, 6:00-8:00pm
Holy City Brewing, 1021 Aragon Ave, Charleston, SC 29405
Come join Audubon South Carolina for a fun evening of shorebird-themed and coastal trivia! Have fun with friends while learning some amazing new facts about the shorebirds that call South Carolina's beaches home. This event will be held in an outdoor seating area, and the rain date is April 1.
Event hosted by Audubon South Carolina.
How to Share the Shore with Shorebirds: Audubon South Carolina Steward Training
March 12, 2026, 5:30-7:00pm
Interested in learning about shorebirds and the simple ways you can help protect them while you're at the beach? Attend this lecture by Audubon South Carolina which also serves as the stewardship training program for the Folly Beach area.
Event hosted by Audubon South Carolina
Baxter-Patrick James Island Library
1858 S Grimball Road, Charleston SC 2941
Impoundment Trailer Ride at Santee Coastal Reserve
Join SCDNR staff on a tour of the Santee Coastal Reserve WMA! This trailer ride will take you through the vast impoundment system of the reserve, where you will get the chance to observe a number of waterbirds making use of the ponds. While the reserve is primarily managed for waterfowl, you will learn how impoundments can also be managed for shorebirds during critical times of the year. Come ready to brace the elements, including bugs!
March 12, 2026, 10:00-12:00pm
Event hosted by the SCDNR Upper Coastal Waterfowl Project
220 Santee Gun Club Rd, McClellanville, SC 29458
Stewardship Stroll- Shorebirds and Sunset
Join us for an evening walk along Clambank Causeway where we will learn to identify various shorebird species, observe their behaviors, and discuss their roles within the ecosystem and conservation efforts aimed at protecting shorebird populations and their habitats. Binoculars are recommended for better viewing, and comfortable walking shoes are advised as the terrain includes dirt roads and natural surfaces. This event is suitable for individuals over 18, and it offers an educational experience that combines nature observation with conservation awareness, fostering a deeper understanding of the importance of preserving coastal ecosystems.
March 13th, 2026 5:00-7:00pm
Event hosted by the North Inlet-Winyah Bay NERR
2306 Crab Hall Rd, Georgetown, SC 29440
Shorebird Safari on Kiawah Island
March 14, 2026, 12:00-2:00pm
Beachwalker County Park, Kiawah Island
Children and adults of all ages are invited to join the Kiawah Island Shorebird Stewards on a Shorebird safari at Beachwalker County Park. We will learn about our local shorebirds through engaging hands-on activities. Stop by anytime during the event and allow 20- 30 minutes to complete all activities. Children under the age of ten will need parent assistance. This event is free and does not require a reservation; however, Beachwalker County Park does charge a parking fee.