Spring Wildlife

Wildlife is very active in springtime and the naturalists are having a great time showing it to island guests! Here is an update about what's going on in the world of Kiawah's wildlife during the spring and early summer season, along with safety tips and protocol for wildlife encounters.

Alligators

Gators are on the move, in search of food, mates, or a safe place to hide from a big boss male. To stay safe around alligators, follow these four common-sense rules:

- Always stay at least 20 yards (4 car lengths) away from alligators.


- Never feed alligators, throw objects at alligators, or harass them in any way

- Stay away from nests and baby alligators, as their mother may defend them.

Wild alligators are naturally shy, but alligators that have been feed or harassed may become aggressive towards people. Please help us keep guests and employees safe by never feeding or harassing alligators, and educating others on the danger of doing so.

Snakes

Almost all snakes encountered on Kiawah are non-venomous. Our most commonly encountered species are black racers (long, black, and fast) and yellow rat snakes (striped). While we do have three venomous species, they are very rarely encountered and can be recognized by a triangle-shaped head. No snakes, venomous or non-venomous, want to eat or attack a person, and will only bite out of self defense. The best way to avoid a snake bite is to leave the snake alone and walk away; most snake bites occur when an attempt is made to pick up or kill the snake.

Baby Animals


Spring is also baby animal season, and at the nature center we receive many calls about young animals found both on and off the island. While baby wild animals are cute, the best mother is one of their own species, who can teach them how to survive in the wild. If you find a baby animal:


- The most important thing you can do is to return it to the nest. Despite the commonly held belief, mothers won't reject their young even if they smell a human on it!

- If the nest can't be found or reached, put the baby under a nearby bush and give the mother 6 hours to return to pick up or feed her baby. Keep people and pets away so she won't be scared off.

- If the mother doesn't return, call the nature center for advice.  843.768.6000


- Never give a baby animal food or water, as the wrong foods or even the wrong amounts can kill it.

Remember, nature is what makes Kiawah Island so unique. Respect our island and all of the gifts that Mother Nature has given us. Now get outside and enjoy this beautiful weather!