Twitcher’s Patch: the Birding Blog of Hilton Head Island and Beyond

Welcome to Twitcher’s Patch—a blog where passionate birders (“twitchers”) and nature lovers can discover the magic of their favorite birdwatching spots (“patches”) across Hilton Head Island, the Lowcountry and beyond.

Here, you’ll find stories, tips, and field notes inspired by the region’s extraordinary diversity—over 330 bird species thrive in habitats ranging from sandy beaches and lush forests to protected wetlands and vibrant marshes. Whether you’re searching for the perfect shot, planning your next birding adventure, or simply curious about the unique charm of Lowcountry wildlife, this blog is your guide to unforgettable experiences, ethical birding, and creative photography in one of America’s premier birding destinations.

You’ll also find tales from my birding travels beyond the Lowcountry, as I seek out new species and inspiring landscapes across the country.

Let’s explore the wonders of Hilton Head and beyond—one patch, one bird, and one story at a time.

Patricia Kappmeyer 11/30/25 Patricia Kappmeyer 11/30/25

Winter Visitors on the Pinckney Island NWR Ponds

This field-note birding walk on Pinckney Island NWR, from the Main Trail to Ibis, Starr, and Osprey Ponds, as winter birds settle in. Hooded Mergansers, American Coots, Pied-billed Grebes, cormorants, kingfishers, and small songbirds.

Patricia Kappmeyer 11/16/25 Patricia Kappmeyer 11/16/25

Heahflod

A field account from Hilton Head Island’s Port Royal Sound at high tide, featuring shorebird behavior. Least Sandpiper foraging among marsh grasses and pluff mud, Black Skimmers and gulls roosting, White Ibis preening and foraging.

Patricia Kappmeyer 10/13/24 Patricia Kappmeyer 10/13/24

Tides, Winds, and Egrets: A Post-Hurricane Marsh Experience

After Hurricane Milton passed offshore, I found myself immersed in a rare, up-close encounter with two egrets feeding in a storm-swept marsh. As the tide receded, Snowy and Great Egrets feasted on large shrimp, pushed inland by the surge, circling just feet from my lens. In 'Tides, Winds, and Egrets: A Post-Hurricane Marsh Experience,' I share the stunning details of this unforgettable moment in nature.

Patricia Kappmeyer 8/15/24 Patricia Kappmeyer 8/15/24

Shelter from the Storm: Shorebirds, Seabirds and more

During Tropical Storm Debby, shorebirds on Hilton Head Island huddled together for shelter, with smaller species like dunlins and least sandpipers using larger birds as windbreaks. Early migrants such as whimbrels and marbled godwits were found among the flocks, highlighting the start of shorebird migration in mid-August. Seabirds, including four species of terns and Black Skimmers, also sought refuge in the marshes, demonstrating the resilience and adaptability of coastal wildlife during extreme weather.