Golden Isles Issue 1 | Page 22

TAKE FLIGHT B irders are encouraged to bring their binoculars and eagle eyes to the Golden Isles, as you never know what you might see! More than 330 species can be found among the marshes shaded by oak trees, including herons, egrets, roseate spoonbills and bald eagles. The Colonial Coast Birding Trail is a network of 18 stops from Savannah in the north to St. Marys in the south, each offering a different viewpoint. Included are state parks and sites like Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation in Brunswick, an 1800s rice plantation. Don’t miss the na- ture trail from the visitor’s center that follows along the marsh’s edge. The Audubon Society has recognized Jekyll and Little St. Simons islands for their bird habitats. Hundreds of species have been spotted on Little St. Simons Island , which hosts annual birding days, evening owl prowls, and more at its nature sanctuary along the Atlantic Migratory Flyway. Brunswick also has opportunities for spotting friendly fowl. Altama Plantation Wildlife Management Area is one of the most ecologically diverse habitats in the southeast and boasts the highest documented number of rare plants, animals, and natural community occurrences in Georgia. Bald Eagles 20 Roseate Spoonbill @RALEIGH9KITCH