Wildlife in Hilton Head

Hilton Head Island is full of natural inhabitants that are enjoyable to observe.

Bird Watching

Bird watchers love Hilton Head. There are inshore and offshore birds to watch. Shorebirds are fun to watch while they hunt for fish with their skinny legs and long beaks. Brown pelican, egret, ibis, wood storks, and osprey can been seen on the shores and marshes.

Loggerhead Turtles

An endangered species, the endangered Loggerhead Turtle is present in Hilton Head and begins its life buried in the sand as a young hatchling. The mother deposits 50-150 eggs in a nest in the sand then she journeys back into the ocean leaving the eggs to hatch. The newborn turtles will also escape to the ocean for safety. The turtles can grow to be 350lbs and have the capability to swim up to about 25 miles per hour. The Loggerhead Turtle also has the strongest beak of all Atlantic sea turtles.

Naturally, there are strict laws that protect the turtles. If you find a nest, you should call the local authorities at (843-785-3818). Be sure to not disturb them since heavy fines can be imposed. Many citizens on Hilton Head Island and the Lowcountry devote themselves to the safety of these sea creatures.
More about Loggerhead Sea Turtles

Bottle nosed Dolphins

The Bottle Nosed Dolphins are extremely friendly an can be seen in many parts of Hilton Head. They will gladly approach your boat for a little attention. There are also many tours that will take you to feeding areas of the dolphins around Callibogue Sound and Broad Creek.

Alligators

Golfers in Hilton Head occasionally cross paths with alligators. Alligators are prevalent in lagoons, ponds, and sometimes the beaches. Tourists and residents should be sure to keep a safe distance between themselves and the alligator(s)

The Fall and Spring are the best times to see alligators and they can grow to about 12 feet long. The sporadically leave the water to raise the temperature of their blood. It is illegal to feed alligators since they can be quite dangerous especially if they feel provoked by an aggressor.

The wildlife in Hilton Head is extremely beautiful so please respect our natural inhabitants.