Birding
At Ernest F. Hollings Ace Basin National Wildlife Refuge
The Refuge is known for an abundance of bird species. The American Bird Conservancy and the National Audubon Society have recognized the refuge as an Important Bird Area.
Waterfowl, raptors, shorebirds, wading and marsh birds, and songbirds, including threatened and endangered species, all use the refuge's various habitats to meet their needs, according to the seasons.
- From late fall into the spring, over 20 species of waterfowl including pintail, shoveler, and widgeon winter on the refuge.
- Painted buntings, prothonotary warblers and other neotropical songbirds migrate thousands of miles for summer breeding habitat, spending the spring, summer and early fall months.
- Egrets, herons, wood storks, and other wading birds can be seen year-round, as well as bald eagles, hawks, wild turkey, woodcock and quail.
See what to expect on your next visit in our bird brochure.
