Species Classifications:

The following are definitions for each status:

• "Endangered" status includes any native species whose continued existence as a viable component of the state's fauna is determined to be in jeopardy and/or is designated "Endangered" by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service under the Endangered Species Act.

• "Extirpated" status is in reference to a population, no longer present as live individuals in a particular area 

• A status of "Threatened" includes any native species likely to become endangered within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range within the state and/or is designated "Threatened" by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service under the Endangered Species Act.

• The "Special Concern" designation applies to any species that is determined to require monitoring.

• “Nongame” status includes species that are not classified as game or furbearer. These species are regulated by the NCWRC. 

• “Game” status includes species that can be hunted in North Carolina
  

• “Big Game” status includes species that can be hunted and must be registered with the NCWRC upon harvest.
  

• “Furbearer” status includes species that can be trapped in North Carolina. 

• Inland game Fish" may be taken only with a hook and line for exceptions see General Regulations For Inland Game Fish (PDF).

• "Nongame Fish" status includes any fish not classified as a game fish when found in inland fishing waters and includes shellfish and crustaceans.