Endangered in the Lowcountry

Endangered in the Lowcountry Exhibit

The Lowcountry is home to a wide variety of habitats, flora and fauna. Over the years, some of the animals that have called this region home have been impacted by changes that in the surrounding environment or by human interference with their normal ranges or habitats. Most of us are familiar with the historic plight of the Bald Eagle with the devastating effects of DDT on its reproduction. Thankfully, in recent years, Bald Eagles have made a recovery in numbers – and are thriving in South Carolina – and are nesting on Hilton Head Island. There are other stories, though, that are less hopeful. Changes in habitat and land-uses has made some animals less common on Hilton Head Island. Wild Turkeys and bobwhites are rarely, if ever, seen on the island and Bobcats are scarcely documented in this region.

Visit the Coastal Discovery Museum now through December 11, 2009 and explore this unique exhibit as it examines some of the animal and plant species that are protected federally or are noted by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources as being in decline, threatened or at risk. The Coastal Discovery Museum has also assembled stories about animals who are not necessarily protected by law, but are decreasing in number for many different reasons.

Mounted specimens from the Museum’s collection, from the Lowcountry Institute and South Carolina Department of Natural Resources will be on display alongside photographs by local naturalists and artists. Several species of living plants that are at risk are on loan from Naturescapes. Scientific data from the Department of Natural Resources and from the local Audubon Society bird count are included in the exhibit. Hilton Head artist John Davey has created a series of 15 never-before exhibited engravings that are included in the exhibit. The Museum has created a family-friendly ‘scavenger hunt’ for younger visitors.

Programs scheduled for the public include a presentation about the Piping Plover Recovery Plan on Wednesday, December 2nd at 2:00 p.m. at the Coastal Discovery Museum at Honey Horn.