North Jones Estuarine Beach

Estuarine beaches are sand, mud, gravel, or shell intertidal beaches that are found in partially enclosed bays. These beaches are shaped by tides, waves and currents, but are sheltered from the high energy surf of the ocean.  

This habitat provides an area for birds to nest, rest and feed, and may also be used by Diamondback terrapins for nesting.  The North Inlet – Winyah Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, in partnership with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, seasonally erects signs within this area to protect shorebird nests. Due to the sensitive nature of the colonies, areas behind bird nesting signs are closed from April 1-October 15 each year providing sufficient time for the chicks to fledge.

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