WHAT

The Black Skimmer (Rynchops niger) is a unique and beautiful bird species that grace the coastal areas of South Carolina year-round. Its distinctive black and white plumage, thin wings, and remarkable lower mandible that skims the water surface for food make it an easily recognizable figure along our shores. Despite its prevalence in our state, it has yet to be officially recognized as a symbol of South Carolina's rich biodiversity.

WHY

South Carolina is home to an array of bird species, but currently lacks an official state seabird. By designating the Black Skimmer as such, we would not only acknowledge this unique creature's place in our ecosystem but also raise awareness about its conservation needs. 

Seabirds, including Black Skimmers, are losing their habitat due to the encroachment of human development coupled with rising sea levels - a situation known as "coastal squeeze". Without available sandbars and beaches to rest and nest on, these birds have nowhere to go. 

A recent success story in the efforts to mitigate these challenges is Crab Bank, a seabird sanctuary in the Charleston Harbor. Due to erosion, the last of the remaining high ground available was destroyed following Hurricane Irma in 2017. The Coastal Expeditions Foundation was one of the lead partners in the effort to restore Crab Bank - a success story for both people and birds. In 2023, more than 500 Black Skimmers nested on the renourished Crab Bank. To learn more about this work, please click here. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Adam Boozer

There are currently five major seabird rookeries on the South Carolina coast that these birds can roost at, one of these being Crab Bank, and the work to protect these critical habitats is far from over. Due to erosion and hurricane damage, the cumulative 275 acres of quality seabird and shorebird habitat has dwindled to less than 100 acres.

HOW

By signing this petition, you're supporting efforts to elevate the status of the Black Skimmer while also promoting environmental education and conservation initiatives within our state. In designating the Black Skimmer as South Carolina’s State Seabird, it spreads awareness to the public about the importance of seabird nesting islands. Let us honor these magnificent birds by giving them their deserved recognition and protecting their habitats! Please sign this petition today.

Interested in learning more about the Deveaux Bank Conservation Fund? Click here to learn more about this important work and how to support it. 

Please direct any questions to Madison Cantrell of the Coastal Expeditions Foundation (madison@coastalexpeditions.com).