Meet Stanley

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Back to His Roots

Long before he became famous, Stanley was a tiny trap growing in the unique coastal environment that makes Wilmington such a special place.

Stanley didn’t have to travel far to find his roots; he grew up right here in the only place he ever wanted to call home. After all, Venus flytraps are a Wilmington original. Surrounded by pine forests, wetlands, coastal breezes, and the natural beauty of the Cape Fear region, Stanley developed a deep appreciation for the environment and the community that helped him grow.

From the beginning, Stanley was curious about the world around him. While other plants were happy staying in one place, Stanley was always wondering what was happening beyond his own little patch of ground. That led Stanley to discover all the ways Wilmington’s community comes together. He learned that the places we gather are where memories are made and where people of all ages find new ways to stay active, creative, and engaged.

Inspired by the legacy of Stanley Rehder, a longtime advocate for Venus flytraps and the namesake of Wilmington’s carnivorous garden, Stanley embraced his role as a champion for conservation, cultivation, and community.

When residents selected him as the official Wilmington Parks & Recreation mascot, Stanley knew it was his time to shine. After all, he had been preparing for his moment in the spotlight his whole life. This was his opportunity to share all of his newfound wisdom.

Today, Stanley is more than a mascot; he’s Wilmington Parks & Recreation’s biggest fan, community ambassador, and self-proclaimed local celebrity. He’s here to help residents discover new adventures, celebrate community moments, and show everyone that there is always something new growing in Wilmington.

Stanley is…

Proud of his roots.
Eager to branch out.
Always ready to dig in.

And yes… he’s always hungry.

Stanley's Faves

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PLAY

  • Playing with the other sprouts at Fit For Fun
  • Rooting for the athletes at Special Olympics events
  • Staying on par at the Muni and Inland Greens
  • Making a racquet at Althea Gibson Tennis Complex
  • Hanging with my pitcher pals at Olsen Park
  • Kickin’ it at nCino
  • Shredding it at the Alec Chamber’s Skate Park
  • Leafing it all on the court with Athletics
  • Diggin’ the game day action at Legion Stadium
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EXPLORE

  • Learning naturally at Halyburton Park
  • Fishing at Greenfield Park
  • Soaking up the views on the Riverwalk
  • Feeling right at home with his carnivorous cousins at the Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Garden
  • Browsing the seed-lection at the Davis Center seed library
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ADVENTURE

  • Catching a show at Live Oak Bank Pavilion
  • Growing stronger at the Sherriedale Morgan Fitness Center
  • Cooking stir-fly at the MLK Community Kitchen
  • Cultivating creativity with cultural programs
  • Snappin’ to the beat at Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre
  • Be-leafing in helping others by volunteering
  • Getting sage advice during active adult programming

Claim to Fame

Every mascot needs a good origin story. Stanley’s starts with eight contenders, a whole lot of community spirit and a vote.

When Wilmington Parks & Recreation decided it was time to find a mascot, we wanted the community to have a say in who would represent the parks, programs and places that belong to all of us.

So, the competition began.

Eight contenders entered the race: elephant, squirrel, alligator, azalea, bee, box turtle, osprey. Each one brought its own personality and connection to Wilmington, but only the community could decide who would move forward.

Through a series of community votes, the field was narrowed down round by round. Residents cast their votes, favorites emerged, and the competition got tougher with every round.

Until there was one contender left standing: the Venus Flytrap.

Then it was time to for a name. Again, we turned to the community for help. After an open-ended poll of suggestions, a few repeat names emerged and we eventually narrowed down the field. Stanley rose to the top, a fitting tribute for the Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden.

 

Inspiration Behind Stanley

Stanley News

Stanley is your go-to flytrap for all things Parks and Recreation. Learn about upcoming activities, programs, and exciting work being done throughout our parks and trails by subscribing to Stanley News!

Subscribe to Stanley News

See Venus Flytraps in the Wild

Did you know? Venus flytraps grow naturally only within 70 miles of Wilmington, N.C. Please feel free to visit any of these locations to observe them.

Please note: It is a felony to dig up or steal Venus flytraps. They are available locally, but should only be purchased from safe, legal growers.

  • Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden, 3800 Canterbury Road, Wilmington
  • Lake Waccamaw State Park, 1866 State Park Drive, Lake Waccamaw
  • Carolina Beach State Park, 1010 State Park Road, Carolina Beach
  • Green Swamp Nature Preserve, 673 Green Swamp Rd NW, Supply
  • Airlie Gardens, 300 Airlie Road, Wilmington
  • Halyburton Park, 4099 S. 17th St., Wilmington
  • UNCW Bluethenthal Wildflower Preserve, 4855 Price Road, Wilmington
  • Holly Shelter Game Lands 

Educational Resources


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