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Mammals

In Folly, we have land dwelling and marine mammals, like dolphins.

Dolphins

Bottlenose dolphins can be spotted all around Folly, with there being over 300 that live here. These charismatic creatures are important in regulating the food chain. Thanks to their impeccable hunting skills, our marine ecosystem remains balanced. In Folly and all throughout the Charleston coast, dolphins can be seen participating in the impressive strand feeding, where they hunt by stranding fish up on the shore.



Coyotes

Coyotes are a type of canine that are related to wolves. There have been some coyote sightings in Folly Beach as of May 2024, which is why it’s important to be educated on them.

Coyotes are apex predators, meaning they could possibly prey on your pets. They mainly eat larger prey, like white-tailed deer, and are severely impacting the state’s population. They typically avoid humans, but if they get too close to your property you may need to think about relocation or other options.

Coyote resource by SCDNR. Learn more about coyotes and guidelines for hunting, trapping and relocation.

Humane techniques to drive coyotes away by The Humane Society


Squirrels

While squirrels have sometimes been labeled as annoying or pests, they are one of the most well-adapted wild animals to our modern way of life. As natural gardeners, they are always burying seeds so they’ll have food during winter. But, they often forget where some of their seeds are buried, so when that happens – we get free landscaping!


There are four species of squirrels in South Carolina. The most common type is the Eastern Gray Squirrel, but South Carolina is also home to unique species like the Fox Squirrel, said to be the most variably colored squirrels in the world, and the elusive nocturnal Flying Squirrel.


Other mammals in Folly Beach include raccoons, skunk, opossums and armadillos. Keep your eyes peeled on the road for these guys as they can be slow moving, making them one of the most common roadkill victims.