WILDLIFE ON KIAWAH ISLAND

The Town of Kiawah Island takes a very active role in managing the natural resources on the island. From the wooded uplands to the beaches, animals thrive in the rich natural environment. Deer, bobcats, gray foxes, raccoons, river otters, and ospreys are just a few of the many animals that can be found on Kiawah Island.

Wildlife management on Kiawah is handled by a full-time wildlife biologist and an assistant wildlife biologist in cooperation with the Town's Environmental Committee, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources and other island entities, such as the Kiawah Conservancy, Kiawah Island Golf Resort Nature Center and Kiawah Island Community Association. The Town and KINHC have funded and supported several research projects and programs, many of which are ongoing, in order to better understand and manage the wildlife species on the island.  Please click on the links to the right for additional information on these projects as well as some of the birds and animals that call Kiawah Island home.

For questions or comments concerning any of the Town's wildlife rules and regulations, research, and management practices, please contact Jim Jordan or Aaron Given at  (843) 768-9166 . 

CURRENT WILDLIFE NEWS HELP PROTECT KIAWAH ISLAND'S BEACH NESTING BIRDS Spring is here and the beaches of Kiawah Island abound with migratory birds that spend the spring and summer here.  The 3 most common beach nesting birds on Kiawah Island are least terns, Wilson's plovers, and American oystercatchers.  Wilson's plovers may be found up and down the beach but least terns and oystercatchers nest exclusively on the eastern end of Kiawah Island adjacent to the Ocean Course Clubhouse.  The birds are nesting now and the area has been posted with signs prohibiting entry for any reason.  Please do not disturb the birds in this area.  Kiawah Island is one of only 3 places in the entire state where least terns can be found nesting along the beachfront.  If you visit the area, please observe the birds with binoculars from a distance.  Click here for additional information.

 

How to keep predators from raiding your bluebird nest box?