Fripp Audubon recently conceived, organized and successfully conducted the Fall Migration Celebration here in the Sea Islands of Beaufort, a first-of-its-kind birding event. Local naturalist John Albert took the lead, organizing 15 programs and presentations by recognized ornithological experts, all scheduled into two beautiful days from October 6-7. Participants enjoyed activities on Fripp, Hunting and Harbor islands.

The major goal of this event was to showcase the six-island, 10,000 acre, Beaufort Barrier Islands Important Bird Area (IBA), a major bird conservation site designated just three years ago by the South Carolina Audubon Society. Ninety people participated, with 41 from outside Beaufort County — and 24 of those from out of state.

Another goal of this event was to encourage cooperation among our three inhabited barrier islands. One example of this was the single pass for multi-island access to Fripp, Hunting and Harbor. The Fripp Resort also offered favorable accommodation rates to participants. Hunting and Harbor Islands provided venues for presentations and activities while the Fripp beach and tidal pools offered rich opportunities for observing sea and shore birds.