Scotch Bonnet

The weather is still fairly nice even though it's been a little chilly and windy the past few days but it's been sunny. It's a good time to get on the beach and do some looking for the NC state shell the Scotch Bonnet. It was named the state shell in 1965.

The scotch bonnet is found from North Carolina to Brazil and is distinguished by its pattern of small orange squares, which give it a plaid appearance (hence its name). However I hardly ever see one with the perfect plaid pattern here on the island. The shell can reach 3 to 3½ inches in length when fully grown.

Crystal Canterbury

Courtesy of SCDNR