From lighthouses to live oak trees, our Sam Bland takes in the cultural and natural wonders of the northern Outer Banks.
Places
Northeast Cape Fear River
Bald eagles are among the endangered and rare creatures that live along the river, but environmentalist fear what another potential resident — the Titan Cement plant — will do to the river.
Wildlife Without the Mosquitoes
A new visitors’ center in Manteo offers a hands-on, learning experience about the federal wildlife refuges in North Carolina.
Hatteras Center, Ecology Park Set to Open
Sea turtles will get prominent display space at the Hatteras Island Ocean Center’s new education center that should open this spring. The center will also have trails through the wetlands and free kayak and paddleboard launches.
Remembering the Fight to Save Bird Island
Residents who fought for 10 years to stop development of the island near Sunset Beach will gather this week to dedicate a kiosk that describes the fight and why it was worth waging.
The Serengeti of North Carolina
Thousands of migrating waterfowl are attracted to Lake Mattamuskeet each winter where they join the native black bears, otters, bobcats, mink, snakes, sliders, herons, egrets and dozens of other species. It is Sam Bland’s kinda place.
Jockey’s Ridge: Saving the Giant
It was 40 years ago that Carolista Fletcher Baum stepped out in front of a bulldozer to spark a movement to save the highest sand dune on the East Coast.
Bear Island in the Winter
Sam Bland, our naturalist, returned recently to the home of his heart, his spirit, his soul. Come walk with him on the winter beach as he rediscovers old friends — keyhole urchins and the murex, crystal skippers and fierce antlions.
The Rachel Carson Reserve
Majestic wild horses are just some of the creatures that inhabit this wildlife oasis just a short paddle from the Beaufort waterfront.
Fall Is Empty Beaches and Showy Skies
Fall on the coast can be magnificent. Cooler temperatures and cooler water make getting outside enjoyable again. Take a stroll along an empty, catch some Spanish for supper and take in the celestial show.
A White Oak River Relaxathon
The federation and a Swansboro business offer adventurers a chance to set out on the beautiful White Oak River for a little sightseeing, paddling, swimming and light yoga.
Woods’ Wonders Now Open to All
One man’s desire and persistence has lead to a nature trail at the Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve that allows the disabled and others to enjoy the woods’ beauty.
Cruise the White Oak Marshes
Summertime cruises offer a delightful way to learn about the human and natural histories of the White Oak River.
Cedar Island Refuge
The refuge’s squadrons of mosquitoes and deer flies chased Sam Bland back to his truck, but the dance of dragonflies mesmerized him.
Lea-Hutaff Island, a Restful Respite
The deserted beaches, shifting shoals and expansive marshes of Lea-Hutaff Island along the southeast coast make it a needed haven for many bird species.
Holly Shelter Ablaze in Wildflowers
A wild fire devastated a portion of the Holly Shelter Game Lands in Pender County last year, but it’s still a refuge for rare plants, diminutive gopher frogs and native butterflies.
