When you think about Myrtle Beach eco tours, you probably think about seeing creatures like dolphins and sea turtles. But did you know there are also dozens of fascinating bird species to keep an eye out for? If you want to spend some time birdwatching during your Myrtle Beach vacation, look out for these five local species!

1. Brown Pelican

If you see a fish diving down toward the water to catch some fish for dinner, it’s likely that you’re watching a Brown Pelican. These birds are big and stocky and tend to fly in single-file lines when they’re with their families. Fun fact: the Brown Pelican is one of just three pelican species in the entire Western Hemisphere! You’re most likely to see these birds in the early evening, so you might spot one while you’re on a sunset cruise!

2. Great Blue Heron

The stunning Great Blue Heron stands out in that it’s the biggest native heron in North America! You’ll know you’ve found the right bird by the slaty feathers and the red-brown thighs. These birds tend to hang out around ponds, rivers, and lakes, but there’s a good chance you’ll see them near larger bodies of water as well.

3. Double-Crested Cormorant

This bird has a truly unique appearance that sets it apart from the rest. While the Double-Crested Cormorant is typically all black, it develops a beautiful black-and-white feather crest throughout mating season. Look in the water and see them swimming with just their head and neck above the water. Just don’t mistake this one for a duck as many vacationers do!

4. Great Egret

Look out for the one-of-a-kind S-curved neck to identify the Great Egret. These birds are identified by their black heads, brown tufts that are almost like ears, and scarlet eyes. If you’re headed to Myrtle Beach in the winter, you’ve got the best chance of spotting one of these birds. Try looking around the coastal bays; Great Egrets are pretty hard to miss, standing at up to three feet tall!  You won’t need a keen birdwatching eye to spot these beauties.

5. Western Sandpiper

When you’re on the shore, keep your eyes peeled for the adorable Western Sandpiper. Since it’s one of North America’s most abundant shorebird species, there are plenty of them around here for you to find! You’ll notice that these tiny birds have short, thin bills, brown feathers on their backs, and white feathers on their stomachs.

Make the most of your Myrtle Beach vacation by booking an eco tour and doing some birdwatching up close! Blue Wave Adventures is proud to offer family-friendly excursions like dolphin tours and sunset cruises. Every adventure is ideal for guests of all ages, and you’ll always have an experienced captain guiding you through the waters and explaining all the incredible sights along the way. Get in touch with Blue Wave Adventures today to book your trip!