Discover Summer: Naturally North Carolina
June 19— June 25
Did you know North Carolina is the most ecologically unique state in the southeast because its borders contain sub-tropical, temperate, and boreal habitats? Biodiversity is the totality of genes, species, and ecosystems in a region. Because of its climate and topography, North Carolina is rich in biodiversity. From the Appalachians to the Atlantic, North Carolina is home to a wealth of plants, animals, and unique natural areas, some of which can be found nowhere else on Earth. As part of our Discover Summer Challenge, we want to share 7 ways that you can learn about North Carolina’s natural world!
Here are seven things you can do to learn about plants and animals that call North Carolina home.
- MAKE A TOAD ABODE
Toads are important! The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that a single adult toad can eat 10,000 insect pests over the course of an average summer, and as any NC resident knows that is a BIG deal. Toad abodes can be made out of broken flower pots, rocks, old buckets, and numerous other materials lying around your garden. Learn more here!
2. VISIT THE ZOO/WATCH THE ZOO EDVENTURES ONLINE SERIES
Seriously, the best place to learn about animals is the zoo, right? The North Carolina Zoo is the world’s largest natural habitat zoo. In the various regions of the NC Zoo, you will have the opportunity to learn about animals that are native to North Carolina in addition to animals from all over the world. While you’re there, make your way to the Kidzone to meet the Animal Ambassadors. Animal encounters are interactive educational experiences that explore a variety of animals — what they eat, how they live, and what you can do to help the animals that live in your own backyard!
If you can’t make it to the Zoo, or it’s just too hot for you, check out the NC Zoo’s weekly Zoo EDventures Online Series, a fun, educational presentation about animals and nature. All ages are encouraged to join in and you can ask questions throughout the LIVE facebook events. Past episodes are also available on the Zoo’s website.
3. MAKE A LEAF RUBBING
North Carolina is fortunate to have a great diversity of woody plant species in its extensive forests, with approximately 655 species of trees, shrubs, subshrubs, and woody vines. These habitats are incredibly diverse and are deeply linked to the state’s history. Making a leaf rubbing is a great way to get more familiar with the “fingerprints” of our forests. Challenge yourself to find as many as possible, then trade with your friends to test your knowledge!
4. PARTICIPATE IN ecoEXPLORE
The ecoEXPLORE project for North Carolina kids in grade K-8 gets kids outside observing biodiversity and photographing species they see for scientists — and they can earn points toward naturalist prizes and talk to real scientists as they go!
5. WATCH A NATURE NEIGHBORHOOD VIDEO
The Nature Neighborhood series offers tips and information to help you explore nature in your backyard through observation and nature journaling. Watch an introductory video, print out an activity sheet, and head outside to explore your nature neighborhood!
6. NATURE SCAVENGER HUNT
This is a slight variation of number 5 on our list, great for engaging younger wildlife lovers! Here’s a quick checklist you can use to get started! Challenge yourself (and little ones!) to find different types of NC flora and fauna in your own neighborhoods and backyards. You can have fun with this activity during an afternoon or over a couple of weeks. Challenge your neighbors!
7. PLANT A POLINATOR GARDEN
This activity will keep on giving! You can plant a pollinator garden in your yard or simply in a flower box on your porch. A particularly good activity for folks with limited space or mobility, these gardens will become little rest stops for weary pollinating wayfarers. The butterfly highway project will show where your garden fits in the pollinating path and which native plants are best for these very important creatures.
