Hunting is an important wildlife management tool that we recognize as a healthy, traditional outdoor pastime, deeply rooted in Americas heritage. Hunting can instill a unique understanding and appreciate of wildlife, their behavior, and their habitat needs.

As practiced on refuges, hunting does not pose a threat to wildlife populations, and in some instances are necessary for sound wildlife management. For example, because their natural predators are gone, deer populations will often grow too large for the refuge habitat to support. Hunting programs can promote understanding and appreciation of natural resources and their management on lands and waters in the Refuge System.

Pinckney Island NWR annually offers a one-day hunt for white-tailed deer every November. This is a lottery hunt with an application deadline of August 31 each year.

Make a connection to the natural world and learn about the history and current management of the refuge through self-guided interpretive exhibits located in the parking area and along the main trail.

Guided interpretive programs are offered by a couple of local groups that maintain permits with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to conduct these activities. Trained, naturalist guides can offer visitors a more enhanced experience by providing information on the natural resources and rich history of the refuge. Tours with these groups must be arranged directly through them see contact info below.


Friends of the Savannah Coastal Wildlife Refuges Shuttle tours for visitors with mobility issues and bike tours

Questions Email pkytoursgmail.com
Sign up https//coastalrefuges.org/page-1854757


Coastal Discovery Museum Walking tours
843 689-6767 http//www.coastaldiscovery.org


Wilderness Southeast Walking tours
912 236-8115 http//www.naturesavannah.org

The diverse habitats at Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge attract an abundance of wildlife throughout the year, providing excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Over 14 miles of hiking and biking trails are maintained to provide access to all parts of the refuge.

The refuge bird list contains over 250 species. The most popular and colorful to see is the painted bunting, a common summer resident in the island's brushy habitats. During spring and fall migrations, warblers and other migratory song birds are common among the live oaks and in the shrub/scrub habitat. A variety of raptors, shorebirds, and wading birds call the refuge home year-round. Pinckney Island NWR is one of the best places in South Carolina to see breeding yellow-crowned night herons.

Mammals include white-tailed deer, red fox, and bobcat. American alligators are also round in abundance on the refuge, particularly in and around the freshwater ponds.