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Palmetto Pro Birder: Lake Murray Paddle

  • 26 Crayne's Loop Prosperity, SC, 29127 United States (map)

Blue-headed Vireo by Craig Williams.

Be one of six guests to bird a beautiful secluded cove on the northwest side of Lake Murray! Jay Keck, SCWF’s Industry Habitat Manager, will lead this unique opportunity to bird by kayak between a private farm and SC Game Management land. Woodpeckers, including the stunning Red-headed woodpecker and Northern Flicker should be abundant. Other wintering birds like the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Common Yellowthroat, and Blue-headed Vireo should be seen too. A large creek meanders deep into the forest and the canopy creates a cathedral effect for kayakers, but also will create opportunities to see birds directly overhead.  Price is $100, which includes the kayak rental and 5 hour guided tour. Individuals with some kayaking experience are encouraged to join us!

Images L to R: Common Yellowthroat by Graham Norman; Yellow-bellied Sapsucker by Zach Steinhauser.

Where:  Class will be meet and launch from 26 Crayne’s Loop, Prosperity, SC 

When:  Thursday, November 16th, 7:30am - 12:30pm. Rain date: November 17th. 

Lake Murray Sunrise with geese by Vance Solseth.

Who: This training is open to the public. No prior knowledge is required. Minimum age is 16.  This training will count for one day toward Palmetto Pro Birder certification (8 days needed total). For SC Master Naturalists, this event can count as Advanced Training and towards your statewide certification if you need a Piedmont component. Lunch will last thirty minutes, so depending on when we finish, this class will count for approximately 4.5 hours of training. If you are not a Pro Birder or Master Naturalist, just come have fun with us. Participants will also receive contact info of other participants to allow for carpooling to the class.

Classes fill quickly, register today! After registration, you will receive an email with directions and any other details pertinent to the class.

Other Important Notes:

  • If available, please bring binoculars & your favorite field guide to Eastern birds.

  • Participants should bring water & snacks, and be prepared for a morning on the water.

  • In the event of rain, we will hold this class on Friday, November 17, 2023.

  • After registering, you will receive important correspondence via email. If you change your email between now and then, make sure to notify us.   

Cost: $100 per person - includes kayak, paddle, and life jacket.  

IMPORTANT: Paddling is not difficult, but some previous experience in a kayak would be helpful.

SCWF reserves the right to cancel any event, due to unforeseen circumstances, extreme weather, low registration, or pandemic-related guidance from local/state officials. Any cancellation by SCWF will result in a full refund for all registrants.

Later Event: November 28
SCWF's Holiday Drop In