In partnership with Wildlife Forever, the South Carolina Wildlife Federation proudly presents the South Carolina Songbird Art Contest, which is generously sponsored by Dominion Energy. This contest invites K–12 students to explore our native birds through art and creative writing. This fun competition celebrates our feathered friends while encouraging young artists to learn about their habitats and conservation.

The 2025 featured species include the black-and-white warbler, purple finch, Carolina wren, painted bunting, and white-breasted nuthatch.

The Songbird Art Contest invites you to choose a bird, learn its story, and bring it to life through your own art. If you’re in grade 4 or higher, you’ll also write a short creative writing piece to share what makes your bird special.

Judging: There will be first, second, and third place awards given to each of the grade ranges listed below.


Grades K–3

• 1st Place: Youth Binoculars · Ranger Rick subscription · Prismacolor Art Supplies
• 2nd Place: Ranger Rick subscription · Prismacolor Art Supplies
• 3rd Place: Ranger Rick subscription

Grades 4–6

• 1st Place: Youth Binoculars · South Carolina Bird Guide · Prismacolor Art Supplies
• 2nd Place: Prismacolor Art Supplies · How to Draw Birds Book
• 3rd Place: Bird Guide

Grades 7–9

• 1st Place: Youth Binoculars · South Carolina Bird Guide · Prismacolor Art Supplies
• 2nd Place: Prismacolor Art Supplies · South Carolina Bird Guide
• 3rd Place: Prismacolor Art Supplies

Grades 10–12

• 1st Place: Youth Binoculars · South Carolina Bird Guide · Prismacolor Art Supplies
• 2nd Place: How to Draw Birds Book · Prismacolor Art Supplies
• 3rd Place: South Carolina Bird Guide

Please note that all South Carolina state winners will automatically be included in the national contest.

Quick Guidelines

• Eligibility: Open to all South Carolina students, grades K–12.
• Artwork: Original, hand-done art only — no digital, AI-generated, or computer-edited images.
• Writing: Grades 4–12 must include a short creative writing piece (optional for grades K–3).
• Limit: One entry per student.
• Deadlines: South Carolina entries due November 30, 2025

For complete contest rules and entry details, visit the Wildlife Forever Songbird Art Contest Rules