Twitcher’s Patch: the Birding Blog of Hilton Head Island

The blog's title merges “twitcher,” a term for avid birders, with “patch,” a casual name for a favorite birdwatching spot. Explore the unique charm of birding and photography on Hilton Head Island and throughout the Lowcountry, where natural beauty and diverse habitats create unforgettable experiences.

December’s Frosty Glow: Birding at Donnelley WMA and Beyond
Patricia Kappmeyer Patricia Kappmeyer

December’s Frosty Glow: Birding at Donnelley WMA and Beyond

Experience the beauty of winter birding in the Lowcountry at Donnelley Wildlife Management Area, Bear Island’s Mary’s Pond, and the Bailey Road Impoundments. Discover over 30 bird species, including Bald Eagles, White Pelicans, and Great Egrets, against a backdrop of frost-covered marshes and golden dawn hues. Capture the magic of foggy ponds, vibrant winter landscapes, and rare sightings like Roseate Spoonbills and Wood Ducks. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers, this frosty birding adventure highlights the breathtaking wildlife and scenery of South Carolina’s wetlands.

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A Desert Dawn: Birdwatching at First Light
Patricia Kappmeyer Patricia Kappmeyer

A Desert Dawn: Birdwatching at First Light

Explore the beauty of dawn in the high desert as you journey through New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, and Arizona. Discover the unique birdwatching experiences at sunrise, from the vibrant sounds of Acorn Woodpeckers in Flagstaff to the quiet solitude of Moab's ravens. Join me on a photographic adventure through breathtaking landscapes and diverse birdlife, capturing the essence of the Southwest.

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A Fleeting Moment in the Eye of a Bird Photographer
Patricia Kappmeyer Patricia Kappmeyer

A Fleeting Moment in the Eye of a Bird Photographer

A "fleeting moment" refers to a very brief period of time that passes quickly and often unexpectedly. It is a transient, ephemeral instance that is over almost as soon as it begins, making it memorable and often significant because of its brevity. Fleeting moments are often cherished or noted for their beauty, rarity, or emotional impact, highlighting the impermanence and preciousness of certain experiences.

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