Closex
BHIC conservation staff will not be on-island December 24-29 or on weekends from December-February. Please continue to call our hotline first for wildlife emergencies: (910) 457-0089 x5, but note we may be slow or unable to respond in person.
Please use the following numbers in addition to our hotline:
Birds:
Sea Biscuit Wildlife
(Southport/Oak Island)
(910) 294-2555
Mammals:
Bolduc’s Wildlife Rescue
(Boiling Spring Lakes)
(910) 547-1545
Marine mammals:
UNCW Marine Mammal Hotline
(Wilmington)
(910) 515-7354
Sea turtles:
NC Sea Turtle Stranding Hotline
(Beaufort)
(252) 241-7367
If people are endangering wildlife or an animal is endangering people:
BHI Public Safety
911
The Bald Head Island Conservancy (BHIC) champions the sustainability of barrier islands through environmental research and conservation stewardship of the island’s habitats and wildlife species. BHIC partners with numerous scientific organizations and universities to monitor and investigate the health of the island’s ecosystem. The Conservancy also offers a range of recreational and educational activities for the public. We welcome you to explore the Bald Head Island Conservancy’s program offerings and contribute to the conservation of this unique coastal environment.
The Bald Head Island Conservancy staff and its team of volunteers are dedicated to the conservation of sea turtles and their nesting habitats. We work with numerous state and regional partners to protect these threatened and endangered species, conduct sea turtle ecology research, and engage the public about the importance of marine life.
Bald Head Island offers a variety of tours and exploration opportunities for visitors. You can explore the island’s rich history by taking a guided tour of the Old Baldy Lighthouse or by visiting the Smith Island Museum of History. For a more adventurous experience, take a kayaking tour through the salt marshes and tidal creeks, or go on a scenic bike ride around the island’s 14 miles of trails. Don’t miss the chance to witness the breathtaking sunset views from the beach or take a nature walk to spot some of the island’s unique wildlife. With so many ways to explore and experience the beauty of Bald Head Island, it’s easy to see why it’s a favorite destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
BHI Conservancy is responsible for conducting population surveys of white-tailed deer for Bald Head Island. As of November 2025, the Bald Head Island deer population was estimated at 239 individuals (view historic population numbers here). The recommended population size for BHI based on population density is 125 individuals (with 200 individuals used as a cap in the past). To preserve the integrity of the maritime forest and deer herd health, the Conservancy has recommended to the Village of BHI that population management be reinstated as soon as possible. While non-lethal immunocontraception (birth control) may be considered in the future, the Village is planning to conduct a controlled cull of the BHI deer herd this year. For current information on herd management and logistics, please view the VIllage’s website.
