Simple Ways We Can Protect Kiawah’s Environment
Obey The Speed Limit
Everyday in the U.S. an estimated one million animals get hit by motor vehicles. By simply slowing down and driving cautiously we can protect all the wildlife that feed and travel along the island’s roadways. Better yet, park the car and ride a bike.
Give Migrating Birds Their Space
Species of migrating birds, such as red knots, use Kiawah Island as a place to rest and feed. Shore birds who are disturbed by bikers, beachwalkers, or dogs will stop nesting and feeding to escape danger: this extra stress can be devastating to migrating animals.
Use A Reusable Water Bottle
While exploring and enjoying Kiawah Island, opt for using a reusable water bottle as opposed to a disposable one. The resort is making the process easier by creating a network of water refill stations. Currently, water refill stations with reverse osmosis filtration are located at the Heron Park Center at Night Heron Park, the Fitness Center, The Sanctuary Spa and Fitness Room, and Mingo Point. If you did not bring your own reusable water bottle, they are for sale at the Heron Park Nature Center, and Market at Town Center.
Stay On The Path
When exploring Kiawah Island, travel on the designated bike paths, trails and beach boardwalks. By using the trails, you ensure that you will not further disturb wildlife or our trailside vegetation.
Properly Discard Monofilament Fishing Line
Monofilament can last 600 years in a marine environment and discarded fishing line is hazardous for everyone. Monofilament line can foul boat propellers, entangle and poison wildlife and threaten the health of fisheries. The Kiawah Island Community Association has placed monofilament recycling tubes at many of Kiawah Island’s popular fishing spots or you may bring it to the resort’s Nature Center at Night Heron Park.
Pick Up Litter
Litter, such as plastic bags, is devastating to marine wildlife. Every year in the United States tens of thousands of animals such as dolphins, birds and sea turtles are killed from plastic bag litter. Animals often mistake plastic bags for food, such as jellyfish. Once ingested, the plastic cannot be digested or passed. In an animal’s gut, plastic can prevent food digestion and can lead to a very slow and painful death. There is no simpler way to save our wildlife than making certain all trash is properly disposed of.
Don’t Feed The Alligators
Never feed or entice alligators – it’s dangerous and illegal. When fed, alligators overcome their natural fear and learn to associate people with food. This is dangerous for you and will most likely result in the demise of the alligator. We can continue to successfully coexist with these awe-inspiring reptiles by educating ourselves.
Lights Off For Sea Turtles
Turn off the lights! Turn off flashlights and beachfront lights throughout the night from May to October. Beachfront lights can confuse our Loggerhead Sea Turtles during the nesting and hatching season.
Discovering Kiawah Island
By educating yourself on Kiawah Island’s natural environment, you will continue to learn ways to protect our island, its wildlife, and our planet. Join us on Nature Tours, browse this website or visit the Nature Center!