Conservation // 5 min Read

Eye to the Sky: March

Written by Palmetto Bluff

February was an exceptional month for bird watching, even with the cold, wet weather we experienced. American robins and tree swallows
were seen in massive flocks feeding on holly, wax myrtle, and cedar berries. By mid-February, songs could be heard resonating throughout Palmetto Bluff from Carolina chickadees, northern cardinals, and other year-round species looking to attract mates.

The uncommon loggerhead shrike made an appearance during the Great Backyard Bird Count, coincidently in the same area of Davies Road as the year prior. Meanwhile, purple finches and pine siskins were observed at residents’ bird feeders in Moreland and River Road neighborhood.

A surprise sighting included American white pelicans soaring over both Wilson and Moreland Village, likely preparing for their journey north. And the last unique observation in February included an increase in wood duck activity around Barge Landing and River Road Preserve. Maybe we will see these ducks nesting in March?

February spotted birds: American Robin, Tree Swallows (shared by Wendy Goshert), Caroline Chickadee, Northern Cardinal, Loggerhead Shrike, American White Pelican

March is when the birding world gets wild, as it is the first month of the spring migration and the beginning of the breeding season. We may observe a vast variety of songbirds traveling to their breeding grounds or setting up shop at Palmetto Bluff.

My tell-tale sign that the migration has truly begun is when I hear northern parulas
singing from the trees. Their distinct song is a rising, buzzy trill that suddenly drops at the end. Another warbler to look out for in March includes the prairie warbler, which can be heard along the Longleaf Pine Nature Trail. Their song is a consistent “zee” sound that accelerates and rises in pitch.

For those who enjoy a bit of nightlife, spend some time outside during the evening as chuck-will’s-widows, great horned owls, barred owls, and eastern screech-owls add their voices to the cacophony of frogs, all looking for mates or establishing territories. The last arrival I will mention is the ruby-throated hummingbirds making their appearance around mid-March. Need some nectar? The best recipe for hummingbird food is 1 part granulated sugar to 4 parts water with no red food coloring.

Bluebirds also begin their breeding season this month and you can either put up a bluebird box around your house or sponsor one through the Conservancy! For those looking to get more involved in bird watching, March is the perfect time to break open your field guide or birding apps and see what species can be expected during the migration.

Birds to spot in March: Chuck-will’s-widow (caught while mist netting for bats), Barred Owl, Eastern Screech Owl, Eastern Bluebird, Yellow-throated Warbler, Pileated Woodpecker

There are many species that can be seen in March that went unmentioned above. If you see or photograph something you wish to share, you can submit your sightings to Aaron Palmieri at apalmieri@pbconservancy.org and they may appear in next month’s update!

February’s Unique Sightings:

February Contributors:

David & Jerry Miller, Mark Aher, Bruce Becker, Paul & Jeanne Yhouse, Amy Shakelford, Charlie Bostwick, Brian Byrne, Joseph Teklits, Wendy & Rob Goshert

Click to open a printable version.

Culture
Local Character | Captain Thomas Shanahan

The Bluff | Spring/Summer 2025 Tell me about where you grew up. I was born and raised on Broad Creek in Hilton Head and I’ve been boating and fishing since I was a tiny kid. I got into the industry when I was eight. I’d go down to Shelter Creek Marina and be...

May 2025
crossroads 9-hole golf course

Sporting Life
The Ultimate Crossroads Golf Course Experience

How to Enjoy a Day of Golf at Crossroads  At Palmetto Bluff, Crossroads nine-hole golf course offers more than a place to play—it provides a sense of belonging. While the course layout is thoughtfully designed and visually stunning, what sets Crossroads apart...

Apr 2025
42 Corley Street

Real Estate
Luxury Real Estate Spotlight: 342 Corley Street

Explore 342 Corley Street in Moreland Village Every home at Palmetto Bluff tells a story, and 342 Corley Street is no exception. Perched above a sparkling lake in the heart of Moreland Village, this four-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bath Southern Coastal-style ho...

Apr 2025

Club Life
The Farm Is Blooming With Events This Spring

You know Spring has arrived at the Bluff when The Farm begins buzzing with activity. You can find a bounty of eggs in beautiful hues, bright green potato vines popping up in rows, and Better Boy, Celebrity, and Red Brandywine tomatoes ripening in the sun. We a...

Apr 2025

Real Estate
Stay Awhile: How Palmetto Bluff’s Porches Invite More Than Just A Place To Sit

The homes at Palmetto Bluff are known for their expansive and inviting porches, which embody the spirit of Southern charm and hospitality. These porches are more than architectural features; they serve as seamless extensions of the living space, fostering a co...

Apr 2025

Sporting Life
Behind the Design: A Recent Look at the Coore & Crenshaw Course

Take a closer look at the artistry and intention behind the new Coore & Crenshaw golf course coming to life in Anson. In this exclusive video, hear directly from Ben Crenshaw as he shares how each hole was thoughtfully designed to offer a unique experience...

Apr 2025

Club Life
Member Profile | Bradshaw Family

Randy, Carole Anne, Sage, Tyson, and Wren Oliver Where are you from? Randy: We're both from Manning, South Carolina. We met in high school. Carole Anne: We were high school sweethearts! Randy: In 2013, we moved to St. Louis and were there for over seven ...

Apr 2025
south carolina wildlife

Conservation
Spring Wildlife: What to Spot at Palmetto Bluff This Season

Where to Spot South Carolina Wildlife This Spring As spring breathes new life into the Lowcountry, Palmetto Bluff becomes a haven for nature enthusiasts eager to experience the vibrant South Carolina wildlife. Warmer temperatures, lush landscapes, and longer ...

Mar 2025
amanda cutrer palmetto bluff

Real Estate
Behind the Bluff: Palmetto Bluff Sales Executive Amanda Cutrer

Amanda’s Journey to Palmetto Bluff Real Estate Company Tucked along the banks of the May River, Palmetto Bluff is where history, nature, and timeless design come together to create something truly special. For Amanda Cutrer, a dedicated sales agent with Palme...

Mar 2025
palmetto bluff club members

Club Life
A Day in the Life of a Palmetto Bluff Member

Palmetto Bluff Members: A Look into the Lifestyle Imagine waking up to a cascading canopy of natural oak trees. You can hear the sounds of the May River careening in the background and smell the aroma of finely ground espresso slowly engulfing your waterfront...

Mar 2025

CURIOUS ABOUT LIFE AT THE BLUFF?

Sign up for our newsletter

LIVE
Community Villages
Experience
Palmetto Bluff Club
On The Water
The Arts Initiative
Events
Conserve
About Us