A Field Trip for the Birds
Posted on March 30, 2009
With Charleston’s spring break approaching, any families who have opted for a staycation will be looking for ways to fill a few hours. I highly recommend the Center for Birds of Prey as a just-outta-town field trip worth taking! We paid our first visit over the weekend, and it is an impressive facility. Situated on about 150 acres, over one hundred hawks, owls, eagles and friends are housed in cabin-like structures. Guests can join one of two daily tours or just amble along shaded gravel paths, checking out more than 30 species. Our kids oohed and aahed at each enclosure, pointing out the cutest, fluffiest and noisiest birds. The flight demonstrations are really cool, too!
Saker Falcon Sports Dapper Post-Flight Headgear
Falcon Snags Lure from Bird Handler
We were inspired to make the 20-minute trek after Pearsall (the hubby) smacked into a red-tailed hawk several weeks ago. The poor bird had become one with the grill of his Wagoneer, and he called the Center for help in freeing the injured bird. A volunteer appeared on the scene within minutes to retrieve the hawk and took it to the center’s medical facility. Although “our bird” is still several weeks from being able to see visitors, we look forward to future trips to the center — now that we’re card-carrying members.
My Clan Chats Up the Birds
Despite the pristine outdoor setting, picnicking is discouraged (lest you and your lunch become a talon temptation to a turbocharged bird). All the more reason to fill up on fried shrimp and hushpuppies at the nearby Sewee Restaurant before or after your visit.
The Road Less Traveled: From Local Waters to My Plate
Posted on March 17, 2009
My last official (paid!) job — prior to becoming a play-at-home mom of two — was working for the South Carolina Aquarium’s Sustainable Seafood Initiative. I learned so much about making wise seafood choices and had the opportunity to photograph and write about local fishermen for a wonderful but short-lived magazine. I handled PR and events for the program, and we coordinated with local chefs who made a commitment to serve more local seafood. A fulfilling role in at least two ways.
Last night, the hubby and I joined some fun friends for a fabulous meal featuring local bounty with a side of education from the fishermen who provided the clams, oysters and vermilion snapper for the feast. It was the first Sustainable Seafood dinner we’ve attended in a while, and we love The Boathouse on Breach Inlet.
I shot the Edible Lowcountry cover for an article about clam farming. The “eat local” mural advertises a local chain that serves local shrimp during the season. I pedaled past it on a recent bike jaunt downtown and loved the colors.
McClellanville Clam Farmer Bob Baldwin
Sustainable Seafood = Fish for the Future
Hope Springs Eternal
Posted on March 2, 2009
Given Charleston’s mild versions of winter, I have little to complain about. After all, we need some occasional chilly temps so we can legitimately break out woolen layers for oyster roasts! But this winter seems to have dragged on, and the groundhog must have laughed smugly when he popped up last month, knowing spring was still weeks away.
The Boy and I took advantage of a recent springlike day, looking for signs of life on our “birds-and-turtles” walk around the neighborhood. We caught glimpses of color and wildlife and are reassured that spring will be here soon enough.
Rock Collector Seeks Signs of Life