South · Atlantic Flyway

Birds in South Carolina

Birds in South Carolina: South Carolina's barrier islands and longleaf pine flatwoods host coastal migrants and Red-cockaded Woodpeckers. This guide lists the common backyard birds, a month-by-month calendar, and the best places to go bird watching in South Carolina.

410+Bird species
4Habitat types
1Birding hotspots

Popular cities in South Carolina:

Common Birds in South Carolina

The most frequently reported bird species across South Carolina. Click any bird for full profiles, photos, calls, and attraction tips.

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Backyard Birds in South Carolina

South Carolina backyard birds that regularly visit feeders and gardens. These are the species you’re most likely to attract with the right food, plants, and habitat setup.

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Where to Go Bird Watching in South Carolina

The best places to see birds in South Carolina, from national wildlife refuges to local sanctuaries.

1

Hunting Island State Park

Barrier island migrants and nesting seabirds.

Birds in South Carolina by Month

What to expect each month: migration arrivals, departures, and seasonal highlights.

Birds by Habitat in South Carolina

South Carolina spans 4 major habitat types. Explore birds adapted to each environment.

🏖️Coastal BirdsShorebirds, gulls, terns, and seabirds along the coastline.
🌲Forest BirdsWoodland and canopy birds including woodpeckers, warblers, and owls.
🌊Wetland BirdsMarsh, lake, and river species—waterfowl, herons, and shorebirds.
🏙️Urban BirdsCity-adapted birds thriving in parks, gardens, and neighborhoods.

Birds in neighboring states

About birding in South Carolina

South Carolina is located in the South region of the United States and falls along the Atlantic Flyway, one of four major North American migration routes. The state is home to more than 410 bird species across 4 habitat types: coastal, forest, wetland, urban.

Whether you’re a backyard birder in Charleston or planning a trip to Hunting Island State Park, this guide covers the most commonly seen species, seasonal patterns, and practical tips for attracting and identifying birds in South Carolina.