Working together to implement Black Rail conservation strategies in South Carolina.
Updates
New Management Consideration document for Black Rails in South Carolina is now available!
Hurricane Idalia
While undergoing flightless/catastrophic molt, Black Rails in the Southeast are unable to fly and may not be able to escape from rising water during Hurricane Idalia. During the past decade, flightless molt has repeatedly coincided with powerful hurricanes.
In South Carolina, we have documented adult Black Rails undergoing flightless (aka. catastrophic) molt during August - October. At least one molting female was documented by SCDNR in the days leading up to Hurricane Idalia, which reached our coast on August 30, 2023.
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Ecology and Habitat Requirements
The Eastern subspecies of the Black Rail was listed as federally threatened under the Endangered Species Act during 2020. As Black Rail population numbers on the Atlantic Coast have plummeted by as much as 90% in mid-Atlantic states, Black Rails have persisted in South Carolina thanks to the unique habitat in our state.
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Habitat Management
Although Black Rails have fared better in South Carolina compared to neighboring states, threats such storms during vulnerable periods and the loss of habitat diversity are increasing. Targeted habitat management is needed to ensure their long-term survival.
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Landowner Resources
Habitat creation and enhancement projects with substantial sustained benefits to Black Rails are a priority for several cost-share programs in South Carolina.
