Hunters, birders and wildlife watchers should become familiar with the berries that ripen from September through November in North Carolina. A variety of berries are the main soft mast species that many wildlife species consume in the fall. Observing what animals eat and learning about those foods will enhance outdoor experiences.
The Partridge Berry is a ground covering plant often used in holiday decorations. The berries produced from the plant are popular among birds and squirrels, but will last throughout the cold winter if they are not eaten.
Migrating and wintering birds can find a good food supply from such berry-producing trees and shrubs as red cedar, red bay, wax myrtle, and Carolina laurelberry.