Our Unique Beauty: North Carolina’s Landscapes
Tommy Tomlinson reflects on North Carolina’s unique natural beauty and the forests, beaches, marshes and bays that we call home.
Tag: nature
Pickin’ Pawpaws: North Carolina’s Forgotten Fruit
These native plants have a delightful taste and plenty of benefits — and the season to find pawpaws is here
Lions, Tigers & Bears
Antlions — also known as doodlebugs — are quirky, ferocious larvae hiding in your North Carolina backyard
Living Giants: Get to Know the Tulip Poplar
These hardy, towering trees with multi-colored flowers are important contributors to North Carolina’s landscape
Give a Hoot! Get to Know NC’s Owl Community
These silent predators add mystery and serenity to the night soundscape — learn about the three species you’re likely to see around Raleigh
Bucks & Does: White-Tailed Deer are Delightful… and Destructive
Once an almost-decimated population in North Carolina, these deer are considered a conservation success — but they can be a nuisance
Natural Wonders at Shelley Lake
With its diversity of wildlife — including a heron rookery and nesting bald eagles — this park inspires legions of avid fans
Masked Bandits: Raccoons are Curious Creatures
These easily recognized wild mammals are ubiquitous in the Piedmont, both in undeveloped lands and urban areas
Turtle-y Awesome: Eastern Box Turtles
This native species is the official amphibian of North Carolina. Each turtle has a shell as distinct as a thumbprint.
A Sprinkle of Yellow From the Northern Spicebush
The deciduous shrub Lindera benzoin is an early-spring delight in the Piedmont when its delicate yellow blooms light up its bare branches.
Trees at Eye Level: How Well Do You Know Your Bark?
It’s easy to identify trees by their leaves — but could you do it without looking up? Take this quiz before your next woodland walk.
Watch Out for Zombies! At Least, in Fungus Form…
A bizarre fungus that infects different kinds of insect can cause strange behavior — and frightening alterations to their bodies.
September Poem: A Dance in the Field
Cassandra May Howell compares the twinkle of fireflies to dancers and her childhood self to the hunter against a twilight sky.
Wild, Wacky & Wooly Caterpillars in Your Backyard
Lepidoptera — the larval stage of butterflies and moths — come in all shapes and colors. Here are a few especially cool ones you can find.