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.
Colombia Birding Part 1: The Cali-Buenaventura Road
Explore the Pacific slope of the Andes in Colombia, from Cali’s vibrant streets to rustic fincas. Discover cool mountain air, rich biodiversity, and unforgettable birding adventures at Araucana Lodge and beyond.
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.
A Desert Dawn: Birdwatching at First Light
Explore birding at dawn in the high desert of New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, and Arizona.fAcorn Woodpeckers in Flagstaff to the quiet solitude of Moab's ravens. Join me on a photographic adventure through breathtaking landscapes and diverse birdlife, capturing the essence of the Southwest.
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.
The Misunderstood Northern Mockingbird: A Closer Look
A closer look at the misunderstood Northern Mockingbirds.
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.