South · Atlantic Flyway

Birds in South Carolina

South Carolina's barrier islands and longleaf pine flatwoods host coastal migrants and Red-cockaded Woodpeckers.

410+Bird species
4Habitat types
1Birding hotspots
3+Cities

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.

Browse all birds →

Backyard Birds in South Carolina

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

Find the right feeder →Bird-friendly plants →

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.

Top Bird Watching Spots in South Carolina

The best places to go bird watching in South Carolina, from national wildlife refuges to local sanctuaries.

1

Hunting Island State Park

Barrier island migrants and nesting seabirds.

Bird Calendar — South Carolina

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

February
Steady winter residents
March
Steady winter residents
June
Steady winter residents
July
Steady winter residents
August
Steady winter residents
November
Steady winter residents
December
Steady winter residents

Explore 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.