Everywhere we go, we can’t help but be curious about the nature that surrounds us. We recently spent a few days at the beach here in North Carolina. While the star of the show was the Atlantic Ocean, we did take note of the plants and animals that crossed our path.
Sea oats are a native grass that grows along the sand dunes. Their deep roots help protect the sand dunes during tropical storms by holding sand in place. Their stems trap blowing sand much like a snow fence. Sea oats are an incredibly important plant for stabilizing our dunes, and it is illegal to tamper with the plant or seeds.
Beach vitex is an invasive plant growing on the dunes. It was brought to the United States from Korea in the 1980’s to prevent erosion. However, it grows quickly and chokes out native plants, including sea oats. It has the nickname “Kudzu of the Coast”.
Dune pennywort is a native plant stabilizing the dunes. Look carefully and you’ll notice their small white flowers.
Blanket flower is a beautiful red and yellow daisy-like flower growing in the sand. Their nectar is enjoyed by butterflies, and their seeds are loved by songbirds.
Sea gulls are a common sight on the beach. The black-headed gulls are called laughing gulls. Have you ever heard their call? It literally sounds like laughter!
It’s also fun to watch the pelicans. They are usually soaring overhead. If you happen to be by an active fishing pier, you might witness them diving in the water for a snack.
Have you been to the beach recently? What did you see?