about three feet in height (as compared to our snowy egrets,
which are smaller with black beaks and yellow feet). They are
fairly unique in that they retract their necks in flight unlike
most other birds. When breeding they display beautiful soft
feathers along their backs. While they can be found all year
on Kiawah, their breeding plumage typically appears in mid
to late spring. Interestingly, the National Audubon Society
chose an elegant great egret in flight as their symbol, partly
to help stop widespread killing of the birds for their feathers,
which were once a popular adornment for ladies hats. The
closely related, smaller green heron is quite colorful with its
greenish-black head, blue-green back, and chestnut neck.
Ducks
Several species of ducks are found on Kiawah, including
hooded mergansers and buffleheads, both common around
our ponds during the fall and winter. Unlike humans, the
males of these species are much more attractive than their
female counterparts, which are typically fairly dull brown
in color versus the bright white heads of their mates. Other
ducks include sea ducks like the black scoter and surf scoter.
Inland and Forest Birds
Home to both resident and migratory birds, Kiawah’s many
varied environments insure the presence of birds in every
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corner of our Island. Each of our seasons brings a new influx
of avian life to join those creatures that make their homes
along with us. Colorful species like bluebirds are common in
the summer, while red-winged blackbirds can be seen yearround. The incredible, and very rare painted bunting shares
many a branch with more common cardinals, chickadees
and titmice. The Carolina wren, South Carolina’s state bird,
is a year-round resident and can be found in the thick brush
that exists throughout the Island. My personal favorite, the
bright blue kingfisher, is often seen swooping into our lagoons
seeking its next meal. Bright red-bellied woodpeckers share
our forests with ruby-throated hummingbirds. Colors and
bright songs abound in every corner thanks to our rich and
diverse environment. And yes, it may be that those bugs you
are complaining about join our fish, snakes, and rodents
to provide a diet rich in protein for many of our feathered
friends.
Endangered and Threatened Species
In addition to the majestic bald eagle and the beautiful
painted bunting (no longer labeled threatened but still of some
concern), several endangered or threatened species grace us
here on Kiawah. Perhaps most notable, is the ungainly wood
stork. Recently upgraded from endangered to threatened, the
wood stork is a large bird, growing to about four feet tall. It
Naturally Kiawah