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.
A Fleeting Moment in the Eye of a Bird Photographer
A "fleeting moment" refers to a very brief period of time that passes quickly and often unexpectedly. It is a transient, ephemeral instance that is over almost as soon as it begins, making it memorable and often significant because of its brevity. Fleeting moments are often cherished or noted for their beauty, rarity, or emotional impact, highlighting the impermanence and preciousness of certain experiences.
Red-Eyed Herons: A Look at the Yellow-Crowned and Black-Crowned Night Herons
Learn how to identify Yellow-crowned Night Herons and Black-crowned Night Herons based on their appearance, vocalization foraging methods and habitat preferences. Both species of birds are present on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
South Carolina State Seabird: The Eastern Brown Pelican
The Eastern Brown Pelican is the new official seabird of the state of South Carolina.
The Inspiration Behind “Flight through the Season: Discover Birding and Photography in the Lowcountry of Hilton Head Island”
Read about the inspiration and motivation behind my new book Flight through the Seasons: Discover Birding and Photography in the Lowcountry of Hilton Head Island.
The Underbelly of a Rookery
Discover the behavior and habitat of South Carolina's coastal rookeries - Great Egret - Snowy Egret - Green Heron - Night Herons - Ibis - Alligators
The Curious Case of the Female Flock
Birding Hilton Head Island: Female Red-Winged Blackbirds. When a large flock of female red-winged blackbirds frequented my backyard feeders I was curious why no males are among them.
How to (safely) Photograph Birds in Marshes, Wetlands and Mudflats
Tips on how to safely photographs birds in the marshes, wetlands and mudflats on Hilton Head Island and the Lowcountry of South Carolina.