Why should I avoid making coastal birds fly?

Disturbance makes birds use more energy and can make it harder for them to eat enough or raise their young.

Coastal bird viewing

Make five respectful viewing choices

Give nesting, feeding, and resting birds the space they need.

Walk in the wet sand and around birds that are feeding near the shoreline.

Stay outside roped nesting and resting areas.

Leave dogs at home or keep them on a short leash where local rules allow dogs.

Give nesting, feeding, and resting birds enough space so they do not fly away.

Remove personal items, trash, and food scraps when you leave.

This page gives general SCDNR guidance for viewing coastal birds.

It does not provide local species, nest, closure, penalty, rescue, or contact information.

Why should I avoid making coastal birds fly?: Disturbance makes birds use more energy and can make it harder for them to eat enough or raise their young.; Source: SCDNR coastal bird viewing guidance (opens in a new tab)
How should I walk past coastal birds?: Walk in the wet sand and around birds that are feeding near the shoreline.; Source: SCDNR coastal bird nesting-season guidance (opens in a new tab)
What should I do near roped areas and dogs?: Stay outside roped areas. Leave dogs at home or keep them on a short leash where local rules allow dogs.; Source: SCDNR coastal bird nesting-season guidance (opens in a new tab)
What should I take from the beach when I leave?: Remove personal items, trash, and food scraps when you leave.; Source: SCDNR coastal bird nesting-season guidance (opens in a new tab)