Cape Hatteras

a sandy spit forming the most eastern point of North Carolina. It is separated from the mainland by a shallow body of water called Pamlico Sound. The meeting of cool breezes from the north with the land breezes and the hot air of the Gulf Stream creates storms here, making the vicinity of Cape Hatteras one of the most dangerous regions on the Atlantic coast. A large lighthouse with powerful lamps is maintained by the government to warm ships off the shore. The latitude of the lighthouse is 35 degree 15' 14" N.; longitude, 75 degree 31' 17" W: Birds migrating southward are dazzled by the light, and strike the tower in great numbers. Collectors obtain many rare specimens in this way.