Wildlife Trail
A trail through the wetlands leading to the river - walking one of the most ecologically rich corridors in North Carolina, with Croatan National Forest visible across the water.
The trail winds through the farm's varied terrain: agricultural fields, pine forest, and 512 acres of riverfront marsh and wetland habitat.
The trail was made possible in part by a 2024 grant from the National Wildlife Federation, in partnership with USDA NRCS - recognizing Mattocks Riverview Farms as a model for wildlife stewardship and habitat conservation.
Mammals of the Farm
White Oak River Township, Silverdale, N.C. - fields, woods, and wetlands are home to a variety of fascinating animals. Proper management, restoration, and habitat protection helps promote these species.
Their selective browsing influences plant growth and shapes forests throughout the property.
Shapes forests through seed dispersion and population control.
An important prey species and vegetation controller across the farm's fields and forest edges.
These rodents help bury and spread seeds across forests, supporting forest regeneration.
Birds & Reptiles
Creates nest cavities used by other birds and mammals throughout the pine forest.
Helps control insects and disperse seeds around the forest.
An indicator species of healthy farmland and forest habitat.
Controls rodent populations throughout the forest - an essential part of the ecosystem.
Helps control populations of birds, fish, and amphibians in the wetland ecosystem.
Wetland Wildlife
The farm's 512 acres of riverfront marsh and wetland supports a rich community of aquatic and semi-aquatic wildlife.
As an apex predator, keeps the ecosystem in balance and shapes marsh habitat with nesting activity.
A major commercial and recreational species and a crucial link in the river's food web.
Indicator species of healthy habitats - vital to the local seafood industry and river ecosystem.
Crustaceans that recycle nutrients by consuming organic matter - vital to the seafood industry.
Control insects and serve as indicator species of healthy wetland habitats.
Rooted in family, inspired by the land. Building a legacy for tomorrow.