South Point of Ocracoke Island
Description: At the south tip of Ocracoke Island, extensive sand flats reach into Pamlico
Sound. This is the southernmost point of Cape Hatteras National Seashore. From NC
Route 12, there is a sand road (known as South Point road or Ramp 72) leading out to the
beach (~2.5 miles). It can be approached with a 2-wheel drive vehicle, but a 4x4 or legs
are needed to get from the beach to the flats (~1.0 mile to the furthest point). The site
includes beach and extensive sand/mud flats and backs up to a Spartina/Juncus marsh.
Approximately 450 acres are closed to the public from late March to early September for
breeding Piping Plovers, American Oystercatchers and colonial waterbirds. From early
September through October, the closure is modified to include a much smaller area for
migrating shorebirds. This may extend into the winter next year for wintering shorebirds.
Solitary Sandpipers, Spotted Sandpipers and yellowlegs are often seen along the ditches,
running along the side of the sand road leading to the beach, more so than out at South
Point proper.
Low tide is best for surveys along the beach, though good numbers of birds may be seen
at low and high tides. Vehicles are allowed on the beach outside the closures, so early in
the morning before people are out is also a good time. The breeding season closure could
hamper viewing due to its size, but many of the good shorebird sections could be seen
with a scope. Binoculars and a scope can also be used in other seasons.
The entire length of Ocracoke Island is great for shorebirds feeding along the surf at low
tide. Species observed include: Sanderling, Willet, Ruddy Turnstone and Black-bellied
Plover. This is also one of the best sites for Red Knots.
Survey Method: Ground survey. The surveyor should use a scope and survey the sand
flats on the Pamlico Sound side of the island tip at mid or high tide. Note: tides in
Pamlico Sound are often driven by wind and the site should not be surveyed on a low
wind tide, as many birds may be too distant. Spring surveys will be restricted due to
beach closures, but surveyors may be able to arrange limited access into closed areas if
necessary.
Selection Bias: Area closings could potentially introduce a selection bias. Any bias
would be small as the majority of the Type 1 habitat is still visible from the spring survey
point.
Measurement Error: Unknown
Measurement Bias: Unknown
Pilot Studies: None
Local Contacts: Marcia Lyons, Biologist, Cape Hatteras National Seashore