Eco-Trail at Camp Casa Mare
Learn about the wildlife that call Camp Casa Mare home!

Shore life

Coyotes

Canis latrans

Coyotes are medium-sized members of the canine family. Although they live in family groups, coyotes usually hunt alone or in pairs. They are one of the top predators in coastal prairie environments, and play an important role in the ecosystem by controlling prey populations. Despite being known for eating meat, coyotes are actually omnivores; eating wild fruits, vegetables, and grasses. 



Gulf Coast Toad

Incilius valliceps

Gulf Coast Toads are a widespread species of toad; they are native to east-central Texas, eastern and southeastern Mexico, and Central America. They are an extremely common species of toad. At night, male toads will croak loudly in order to attract female toads for mating. 



White-tailed Deer

Odocoileus virginianus

White-tailed Deer are medium-sized deer native to North America. While deer are classified as herbivores, they are not obligate herbivores. This means on rare occasions deer will consume meat; although, they do not seek out meat as a food source. As with many other species of deer, the White-tailed Deer population is controlled by seasons of hunting. 



Great Blue Heron

Ardea herodias

Great Blue Herons are wading birds common throughout North America. They usually live on shores near open water or in wetland environments. Great Blue Herons are highly adaptable to different habitats and diets. Great Blue Herons catch fish, amphibians, crustaceans, an other small animals by spearing them with their beaks.  



Safety

How can we stay safe when encountering wildlife?

Although wild animals may be cute, its important that we treat them with the respect they deserve. When observing or encountering a wild animal, it's important to maintain a safe distance. For most animals, 25 yards or more is a safe distance, however for predators it is recommended to stay more than 100 yards away. You should never feed a wild animal. You should never attempt to sneak up on, scare, or provoke a wild animal. We cannot predict the behavior of a wild animal, and wounded animals are especially dangerous as they can be even more unpredictable. If you see an animal you think may be wounded, DO NOT APPROACH. Instead, notify a ranger.