The Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education is located in Currituck Heritage Park on Highway 12 in Corolla, next to Currituck Beach Lighthouse and the Whalehead Club, on the Currituck Sound. Visitors to the 22,000-square-foot center can learn of the abundant wildlife in northeastern North Carolina's coastal region. Waterfowl hunting, decoy-making and fishing are Currituck County traditions and are important elements in the center’s presentation. Visitors will love the extensive antique wooden duck decoy collection, vintage outboard motor display and a diorama which features a 12,000 gallon aquarium and life-size marsh display. Also exhibited is a re-created duck blind scene from the golden age of Currituck County hunt clubs.
Exhibits focus on the barrier island environment, local wildlife including migrating water fowl, and fish species that inhabit the estuaries. Also enjoy exhibits that present local history through boating, fishing and hunting heritage. Ideally located, visitors can enjoy a firsthand experience of the wetlands and Currituck Sound.
The Center’s hours of operation are daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The Center is open on Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veterans Day, and Thanksgiving Friday, but closed on all other state holidays.
Admission is free, however be certain to call (252)453-0221 to sign up for programs in advance. The Center gratefully accepts donations and donation boxes are located in the lobby. To make a tax deductible gift, see the information desk.
The Center is universally accessible and hearing assistance devices are available for all video presentations. The Center offers a variety of educational programs on a daily basis. While most programs are held outdoors, the staff members also conduct indoor demonstrations and exhibit tours. Programs are free and require advance registration.
The Center offers programs on many different subjects for children of different age groups. “Nature Journals” is a program for children 7 and older that teaches children how to track changes in weather and seasons using writing, drawing, collecting and crafting skills. The “Sea-Squirt Sing-along” allows your 3-7 year old to learn about wildlife by singing about it. Children 14 and older can learn wildlife photography basics. All ages will enjoy the guided beach exploration program to learn about shells, dolphins, shore birds and anything else to found along the way. “Winter for Wildlife” lets everyone learn what the animals do when the weather gets cold. The “Storm Stories” program teaches about hurricanes, nor’easters, blizzards and water spouts. The Currituck Outer Banks has weathered them all. The whole family will enjoy this theatrical production. For reservations to these and many other programs, call (252)453-0221, extension 3.
The Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education invites you to explore coastal North Carolina's wildlife, natural history and cultural heritage.