Surrounded by maritime forests, fertile waterways, and nature preserves, it should come as no surprise that on Hilton Head Island, wildlife is all around you. From bike trails and waterways to your own backyard, you’re never far away from species like white tailed deer, bald eagles, loggerhead sea turtles, numerous fish species, alligators, and much more!
While spotting animals in their natural habitats is always exciting, it’s important to know how to safely observe them. In this article, we’ll cover everything from the unique creatures you may see to safety tips that will protect both you and our Hilton Head Island wildlife. Plus, we’ve got the scoop on how to get the best rates on a vacation rental near a beautiful forest preserve. Get ready to channel your inner Steve Irwin as we check out some of the most popular wildlife in Hilton Head!
In this Article:
- Different Hilton Head Island Wildlife Species
- How to Keep Hilton Head’s Wildlife Safe
- How to Protect Wildlife in Hilton Head
- Nature Preserves, Reserves, and Museums
- Stay Near a Forest Preserve
- Frequently Asked Questions
Different Hilton Head Island Wildlife Species
Discover the wonder of Hilton Head’s diverse ecosystems and natural beauty during your next vacation. Along the way, see how many of our native species you can spot! Here are some of the top creatures to look out for:
Alligators
It’s not uncommon to spot an alligator in Hilton Head, South Carolina; after all, they’re the largest freshwater reptiles on the island! These cold-blooded creatures range from 9 inches to 13 feet long, and while they aren’t typically a problem, it’s important to understand where they’re generally located so you can stay out of their natural environments.
You may spot alligators around piers, in the brackish water of salt marshes, in lakes, rivers, and some have even been known to take a dip in a golf course pond! At night, they’re more likely to feed and be on the move, while in daylight hours, you may see them sunning themselves on land.
How to Stay Safe Around Alligators
- Keep your distance – remain at least 30-60 feet away at all times
- Leash your pets, especially around water, and remain at least 10 feet from water’s edge
- Know where your kids are at all times
- Do not feed or harass alligators—it’s illegal
- Do not disturb nests
Dolphins
Hilton Head Island is home to playful bottlenose dolphins, and you’ll often spot them jumping through the surf in the early morning and dusk hours. Friendly, smart, and curious, these creatures aren’t afraid to come up close and investigate. That said, they’re still wild animals, and remembering that is paramount. As with alligators, it is illegal to play with, harass, feed, or touch wild dolphins.
Dolphins can be seen from the beach to tidal marshes. You can even spot them from the balcony of your Beach Properties vacation rental in places like Beachside Tennis in Sea Pines! If you don’t want to leave your sighting to chance, consider booking a dolphin boat tour or charter!
Safety around Hilton Head’s Dolphins
- Keep your distance: at least 50 yards. Dolphins can bite, and their strong bodies can even break bones.
- Move slowly if you find yourself in the water with dolphins
- Try to be quiet so you don’t startle them
White Tailed Deer
Hilton Head Island has its very own unique species of white-tailed deer, aptly named the Hilton Head white-tailed deer. Indigenous to the area, the population has been quite the topic of discussion over the years. With no natural predator on the island, the herd grew to large numbers, and portions of the population were relocated across the island to thin them out.
Slightly smaller than traditional white-tailed deer, you’ll often see them in the Sea Pines Forest Preserve and near Lawton Stables in early morning hours and at dusk.
Other forest creatures you may spot include bobcats, otters, red foxes, opossums, and even wild boars!
Great Blue Herons, Bald Eagles, and More
Shorebirds like wood storks, herons, egrets, and more are plentiful in Hilton Head. In fact, there are so many incredible species in the area, visitors flock (pun intended) to the island every year for birdwatching events at the Audubon Newhall Preserve. With 50 acres of protected land, you can spot a significant number of the more than 350 different species of Hilton Head birds known to this area.
Hilton Head Island plays a vital role in the survival of thousands of shorebirds each year by providing safe landing spots where they can feed, rest, and refuel while on their way from sub-arctic zones to the southern hemisphere.
For the best chances of seeing these gorgeous birds of Hilton Head, visit between July and October. The Audubon offers many accessible trails and even hosts free, seasonal guided tours on Tuesday and Friday mornings starting at 8:30 AM.
Sea Turtles
While the endangered Loggerhead is the most common of the Hilton Head Island turtles, the area has also been known to have Green Sea Turtles, Leatherbacks, and Kemp’s Ridley—the smallest and rarest.
Loggerheads can live for 70-80 years and can grow to more than 400 pounds! One of the most magical things about them is that, despite traveling hundreds and even thousands of miles in some instances, they still manage to return home to the very shores where they were born to mate and lay their eggs. Generations of turtles call Hilton Head home, and we work diligently to preserve our coasts for generations to come.
Hilton Head turtle season runs from early May through late October. During this time, it’s important to keep an eye on the shore and make sure you don’t disturb any sea turtle nests. Local preservation teams do a great job of marking off known nesting areas, but it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings, too.
How to Protect Wildlife in Hilton Head
Protecting wildlife in Hilton Head is essential. When you visit, remember these tips:
- Stay off the sand dunes - These natural areas with native plants are a vital part of the coastal ecosystem. Dragging things through them, riding bikes, or even walking can damage their delicate root systems.
- Leave No Trace – Things like fishing line, trash, even your sandcastles and holes can cause serious harm to animals like sea turtles, fish, and other marine life. Fill in holes, destroy sand structures, and pack out what you pack in each day.
- Check shells before you keep them – Crabs, conchs, clams, and more have beautiful shells, but they’re also living creatures. If a shell is inhabited, leave it alone.
- Bringing Fido? – Dogs are welcome on the beach, but they must be leashed, and owners should follow all local ordinances.
- Lights out for Turtles – Lights from condos, vacation rentals, and flashlights can all affect a turtle’s ability to find the shore. If you go to the beach at night, use a red-light flashlight, and turn off porch lights as much as possible during turtle season.
Nature Preserves, Reserves, and Museums
While you’re very likely to spot Hilton Head Island wildlife while you’re just out and about, there are some specific places to check out if you really want to up your chances.
- Sea Pines Forest Preserve – 605 acres of protected wildlife habitat filled with wetland boardwalks, trails, fishing docks, and more.
- Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge – More than 4,000 acres of space perfect for hiking, biking, and saltwater fishing.
- Coastal Discovery Museum – This free favorite is located at the Historic Honey Horn. It features unique exhibits and events highlighting all things Lowcountry.
Book Your Stay Near a Forest Preserve!
Featured Property: 974 Inverness Village
Want to exponentially increase your chances of seeing spectacular Hilton Head wildlife while simultaneously decreasing the price you pay on your vacation rental? Beach Properties has you covered!
Did you know when you book directly with us, you get the lowest rate compared to places like Airbnb or VRBO, which tack on extra charges and hidden fees to your bottom line?
Check out our current specials and book a stay in one of our Sea Pines Forest Preserve vacation rentals, or browse our entire Hilton Head inventory and find your dream escape today!
Frequently Asked Questions about Hilton Head Island Wildlife
What kind of wildlife is in Hilton Head?
Hilton Head is full of wildlife, including alligators, bald eagles, shorebirds, dolphins, tons of different fish species, white-tailed deer, and much, much more.
Are there copperheads in Hilton Head?
Yes. Copperheads are one of four poisonous snake species found on Hilton Head Island. All other snake species in the area are non-poisonous. They’re typically found in brushy areas and dunes along roads and pathways. If you get bitten, immobilize the area, tie a bandage around the bite, and call 911 immediately.
Are there monkeys in Hilton Head?
No. There are no monkeys in Hilton Head. They are, however, on nearby Morgan Island, located north of Beaufort, where a colony of rhesus monkeys has remained since a research project in the 1970s introduced the species to the region.
Where to see alligators on Hilton Head?
Alligators are often found sunning themselves along shores during the day. Look for them in rivers, ponds, marshes, and lakes all throughout Hilton Head and the surrounding areas.