North Carolina’s varied landscapes, stretching from the Appalachian Mountains across the Piedmont plateau to the Atlantic coastline, create diverse habitats supporting a rich array of wildlife. These environments, including forests, wetlands, and coastal waters, contribute to a flourishing natural world.
Mammals of North Carolina
North Carolina is home to a variety of mammalian species, ranging from large, iconic animals to smaller, more commonly encountered creatures. White-tailed deer are prevalent across the entire state, often seen foraging in fields and open areas. These adaptable herbivores consume green plants, woody vegetation, and acorns, thriving in diverse habitats like creek bottoms, oak ridges, and pine forests. The state’s deer population is estimated at around one million animals.
American black bears, the largest land mammals, are primarily found in the mountain and coastal plain regions. Coyotes are now present statewide, often inhabiting areas near human development. Smaller mammals include raccoons, common across the state, and opossums, known for their nocturnal habits. Various squirrel species, including gray squirrels, are widespread in wooded and suburban environments.
Birds of North Carolina
North Carolina’s diverse habitats attract a wide array of avian species, encompassing both year-round residents and migratory visitors. Common backyard birds include the Northern Cardinal, recognized for its vibrant red plumage, and the Blue Jay, known for its distinctive blue and white markings. Downy Woodpeckers, the smallest woodpeckers in North America, and Eastern Bluebirds are regular visitors to residential areas. Other familiar species like the Tufted Titmouse, Carolina Chickadee, and American Goldfinch are seen at feeders across the state.
Raptors, such as the Red-shouldered Hawk, can be spotted soaring over various landscapes. Waterfowl are abundant in the state’s wetlands and coastal waters, with species like Mallards, Wood Ducks, and Green-winged Teal being common. Canada Geese and Snow Geese utilize North Carolina’s waterways and fields, especially during migration. The Pamlico Sound serves as a significant stopover for numerous waterfowl species.
Reptiles and Amphibians of North Carolina
North Carolina’s varied environments support cold-blooded creatures, including snakes, lizards, turtles, and amphibians. The state is home to 37 types of snakes, with most being non-venomous. Common non-venomous snakes include the rat snake, which helps control rodent populations, the common garter snake, and the eastern kingsnake. Other non-venomous species like the northern water snake, ring-necked snake, and corn snake are frequently encountered.
Lizards are represented by 12 species, none of which are venomous. The green anole is a common sight, known for its ability to change color, while the six-lined racerunner is notable for its speed. Various skink species, such as the common five-lined skink and broad-headed skink, are present, often found basking on warm surfaces. Turtles are well-represented, with species like the Eastern Box Turtle, a terrestrial turtle found in fields and forests, and the Common Snapping Turtle inhabiting freshwater bodies. Sea turtles, including Loggerhead, Green, Leatherback, and Kemp’s Ridley, nest on North Carolina’s beaches from May through August.
Amphibian diversity is notable, with North Carolina boasting more salamander species than any other state, totaling 64 species and subspecies. The marbled salamander, North Carolina’s state salamander, is common statewide and recognized by its distinctive white or gray bands. Other salamanders include the Eastern Newt and the Spotted Salamander. Aquatic salamanders like the Hellbender, found in clean mountain streams, and Mudpuppies, inhabiting deep rivers and large ponds, are also present.
Aquatic and Marine Life of North Carolina
North Carolina’s extensive network of freshwater rivers, lakes, and its Atlantic coastline support a rich diversity of aquatic and marine life. Freshwater fish species commonly found in the state’s inland waters include various types of bass, such as largemouth and smallmouth bass, and different catfish species like channel catfish. Yellow perch and brook trout are popular in freshwater habitats, with brook trout being native to the state’s mountain waters.
The state’s coastal estuaries and the Atlantic Ocean host a wide array of marine species. Common marine fish include flounder, drum, striped bass, and speckled trout, all popular among recreational anglers. Crustaceans are abundant, with the blue crab being a commercially significant species, often found in sounds and estuaries. Shrimp are another valuable crustacean harvested from North Carolina’s coastal waters.
Shellfish, such as oysters and clams, are found in the state’s estuaries and have been harvested for centuries. Oysters are often found in clumps on hard surfaces in coastal waters, while clams are harvested from intertidal areas and shallow waters. Marine mammals like dolphins are frequently observed along the coast.