RIVER PARK NORTH - Greenville, N.C.
      by Jerry Lotterhos

I have spent more productive time here pursuing wildlife pics than any other spot I visit. Not only is it close to my home, but the great diversity of critters, especially birds, offers a concentrated set of possible sightings on any given day throughout the year. The park boasts a population of 225 species of birds that live there or visit, providing a continuous rainbow of challenges. There are also many mammals including deer, fox, beaver, mink, rabbits, squirrels, etc. This diversity in a relatively small area is due to the varied habitat including 50 acres of lakes, 325 of natural forest ranging from true swamp along the Tar River to pine upland, and 20 acres of open grassland. Keeping the Park friendly to wildlife has been a major goal of recently retired Director Howard Vainright during the past 25 years of his vision and leadership. Those of you who know Howard I'm sure share with me my admiration for his dedication to this great area resource. As a city park with multiple uses including hiking, fishing, camping, youth activities, picnicking, photography, etc., his efforts to keep balance between us people users and quality habitat for the critters has provided a super place for both. Several years ago, I decided to set a goal of photographing all of the 225 bird species that visit the park. No doubt I will never get a good shot of all, but I have managed to get 156 of the 225 and am still pursuing it! See a few of them in the slideshow to the right. This is such a great place!! For birding, it compares favorably with many of the national refuges and state parks I travel miles to reach. Check it out!!
    If you want to go, the Park is located on the north side of the Tar River from Greenville on Mumford Rd. Check this link for info and directions. 
CLICK "PLAY" JUST ABOVE WOODPECKER TO THE RIGHT TO SEE THE SLIDESHOW>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>