The Savannah National Wildlife Refuge lies in both Georgia and South Carolina, divided by the Savannah River. It is one of seven refuges administered by the Savannah Coastal Refuges Complex.
The refuge manages 6,000 acres of freshwater impoundments (dike-enclosed pools). While the impoundments were once rice fields, they now grow redroot, smartweed, and millet. Many waterways weave throughout in the refuge including Savannah River, Black River, Front River, and Middle River.
We first visited in January. Winter is an excellent time to see waterfowl and migratory birds. It was an overcast and chilly day, but we braved the 30-degree wind gusts, and I am so happy we did.
The clouds were stunning, especially when they were filled with blues and purples.
Wildlife
Many species of wading and marsh birds are spotted here throughout the year. The refuge attracts thousands of birds along the Atlantic Flyway.
First, we saw great American coots, blue herons, common yellowthroats, eastern phoebes, great egrets, savannah sparrows, and white ibises.
Next, at the Cistern Trail, northern cardinals, white-throated sparrows, and yellow-rumped warblers were singing.
Near the Plantation Island Trail we found American coots, blue-winged teals, great blue herons, house wrens, and ruby-crowned kinglets.
Finally, on the last stretch there were killdeer and red-winged blackbirds plus some amazing first-time species for me. Common gallinules and anhingas were birds I knew but had never seen in person.
The best surprise was saved for last – close to one hundred black-bellied whistling-ducks! They were grazing, swimming, flying, and fighting.
Wildlife Drive and Trails
Laurel Hill Wildlife Drive wanders 4.5 miles through a portion of the impoundments. While there are a couple of spots to pull off and explore, it could have more in my opinion. We had to drive past a wildlife sighting and find a place to park before walking back to the area.
There are six major trails in the refuge, most accessible from the Wildlife Drive. We hiked three of them during our visit – Recess Plantation Trail, Cistern Trail, and Plantation Island Trail.
Recess Plantation Trail is a 3.2-mile loop that runs the length of John Hill Canal. It is a relatively flat and straight trail on natural terrain.
Cistern Trail is a 0.1-mile loop with a photo blind. Cobblestone bricks set the path on the small island of high ground, called a hammock. The cistern, used to store drinking water and perishable foods, is still visible.
Plantation Island Trail is a 2.5-mile loop that runs across the refuge on natural terrain. It sits between the two sides of the wildlife drive.
Savannah National Wildlife Refuge was a fantastic winter escape. I look forward to exploring it again in different seasons to see what other wildlife I can find.