Learn about Hummingbird Banding During the Wings Over Water Festival Photo courtesy of the US Fish & Wildlife W elcome to Eastern North Carolina and the Outer Banks. Each year millions of visitors who flock to the area to enjoy its beaches, attractions and laid back atmosphere. The ultimate attraction is the area’s diversity of wildlife, natural history and scenic views. Dare County alone has more than a quarter of a million acres of property in conservation – as compared to just 16,000 acres available for development. Dare, Currituck, Tyrell and Hyde counties boast a diverse and fascinating array of wildlife to view and waterways to paddle. In addition to a wealth of marine life, Eastern North Carolina is home to black bears, alligators, red wolves, deer and hundreds of species of birds. The waterways invite kayakers and canoeists to glide through the back waters, the sounds and even the ocean. And natural history attractions draw both young and old who want to know more about the place where the first English settlements were born. Year ‘round, there are nature programs offered by state and federal agencies, as well as nonprofits. The ultimate attraction is the area’s diversity of wildlife, natual history and scenic views. Dare County along has more than a quarter of a million acres of property in conservation as compared to just 16,000 acres available for development. Dare, Currituck Tyrrell and Hyde counties boast a diverse and fascinating array of wildlife to view and waterways to paddle. In addition to a wealth of marine life, Eastern North Carolina is home to black bears, alligators, red wolves, deer and hundreds of species of birds. And natural history attractions draw both youn and old who want to know more about the place where the first English settlements were created. Annually in November, all the stops are pulled out for folks who come from across the country to participate in the Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival. The six day event celebrates the natural wonders of the area and offers many opportunities to explore and discover the richness of the region’s environment. Don’t wait for a personal invitation because the area’s history and natural environment are yours. We are just the caretakers. Please remember to bring sunscreen, mosquito spray and a sense of humor. . . the first two are suggested; the latter required.

Participants, for a modest cost, can select from such varied experiences as: Venturing into areas with combined bird lists of nearly 400 species. Visiting North Pond on the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge on Hatteras Island, the hottest spot for fall birding in North Carolina. Traveling to the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse area to search for a variety of shore and water birds. Experiencing Ghost Town Birding on Portsmouth Island Taking a ferry to the pirate Blackbeard's hang-out on Ocracoke Island to enjoy the quaint fishing village and check out the birds. Visiting the ancient maritime forests at Buxton Woods and Nags Head Woods for a look at these rare ecosystems. Traveling to Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge where eagles and other raptors are likely the causeway and entrance road. Exploring a blackwater swamp in the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge Sliding into a kayak or canoe to explore a salt marsh environment. Wade in search of Clapper Rails, marsh sparrows and wrens at Oregon Inlet. Heading for the blue waters of the Gulf Stream off Cape Hatteras to search for pelagic birds. Experiencing a Red Wolf Howling where the nearly extinct animal is now fighting its way back. Take a Walk on the Wild Side During the Wings Over Water Festival! during WOW Photo Courtesy of Jeff Lewis Look for Black Bear During the Refuge at Night Tour Photo courtesy of Jeff Lewis

At Wings Over Water there will be something for everyone who enjoys the outdoors. Get your schedule of events and registration forms now or have one mailed to you by calling the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce (252) 441-8144.

Northeastern North Carolina

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