Tuesday October 28, 2025
Location: Meet at Seabrook Island Real Estate to carpool at 8 a.m.
Option: Meet at Botany Bay entrance gate at 9:45 a.m.
Max: 12 for the morning half-day portion // 8 for the whole-day afternoon option
Cost: Free for members; $10 donation for guests
Leader: Jennifer Jerome
Join SIB Hawk Watchers at Botany Bay WMA for a Hawk Watch .
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) and partners like the Center for Birds of Prey and South Carolina State Parks are conducting their annual “Hawk Watch” program in 2025, which involves citizen science monitoring of migrating raptors from September to mid-November. Specific events included public viewings, such as the one at Botany Bay, and ongoing data collection at sites like Caesars Head State Park. The program contributes data to the Hawk Migration Association of North America (HMANA) and the Raptor Population Index (RPI).
Of course, a Hawk Watch is a little different than regular birding, and one never knows what you’re going to see or how busy it will be, but chances of seeing a variety of migrating raptors is much higher than at other times. We might see large numbers of Bald Eagles, Osprey, Black and Turkey Vultures, Sharp-shinned and Coopers Hawks, Merlin, American Kestrel and Broad-winged Hawks, to name a few. Or we might just have a chance to enjoy the beauty of Botany Bay from a different angle.
As always, be sure to bring your binoculars/cameras, hats, sunscreen and bug spray. Bring plenty to drink, a foldable chair and a picnic lunch to eat on the property.
Our shift lasts from 10a.m. to 1 p.m. You are welcome to stay as long or short as you’d like, but will need to drive separately. Depending on the weather and how “birdy” it is we may want to stay after to do a little extra birding on the property.
If you are not yet a 2025 SIB member, you may become a member for only $15 by following the instructions on our website: Become a Member. You may bring the form and your dues to the event. Or you may pay the Guest Fee of $10.
Please register no later than October 24. All registrants will receive a confirmation letter on October 27, the day prior to the trip. If you need to cancel, please let us know.