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.
Meet the Orange-Alert Shorebirds of Hilton Head Island Part 1: Black-bellied Plover
Discover the Black-bellied Plover on Hilton Head Island—how to identify it through the seasons, where it migrates from in the high Arctic, and what it feeds on along our local mudflats. This photo-led field note also explains why this species is now listed as an Orange Alert “Tipping Point” bird in the 2025 State of the Birds report and how beachgoers can help protect it.
Winter Visitors on the Pinckney Island NWR Ponds
Discover winter birding on Pinckney Island NWR’s Ibis, Starr, and Osprey Ponds, where mergansers, coots, grebes, and songbirds gather in the Lowcountry area around Hilton Head Island.
In the Footsteps of Walter Anderson: Art, Color, Shorebirds and Seabirds on the Port Royal Sound
Explore how the vibrant coastal art and journals of Walter Inglis Anderson inspire birding and nature photography on Hilton Head Island and Port Royal Sound. Learn about shorebird sunrise rituals, the legacy of the Walter Anderson Museum, and discover how the barrier islands connect art, Hilton Head birdwatching, and Gulf Coast migration stories.