“Birdability” birdwatching tours at Pinckney Island Wildlife Refuge are offered free of charge for mobility challenged individuals. This partnership between the Friends of the Savannah Coastal Wildlife Refuges and Hilton Head Audubon offers an opportunity to ride a 15-seat electric shuttle with a bird guide to look for both migrating birds and nesting egrets and herons present during the spring on Pinckney Island. Passengers do not have to leave the shuttle during the tour. The golf cart was purchased to expand accessibility at Pinckney thanks to a grant from the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry.

The diverse habitats at Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge attract an abundance of wildlife throughout the year, providing excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. The refuge bird list contains over 250 species. During spring migrations, warblers and other migratory song birds are common among the live oaks and in the shrub/scrub habitat. A variety of raptors, shorebirds, and wading birds call the refuge home year-round. Pinckney Island NWR is one of the best places in South Carolina to see breeding yellow-crowned night herons.

Bring your own binoculars or use those provided. You must be registered to participate. Registered participants can find the shuttle in the Pinckney NWR parking lot just before the tour begins. 

Photo of Great Egret: Patricia Kappmeyer