Acorns come from oak trees, which are a type of tree. There are about 500 species of oak trees worldwide, 90 of which are native to the United States. Oaks are easily recognizable by their large, sturdy branches and leaves that turn color in the fall. Oak species from both the white oaks and red oaks groups are found throughout North Carolina. Oaks are synonymous with whitetail hunting because of the acorns they drop in late summer and early fall. Acorns are the fruit or nut of an oak tree, and each acorn contains a single seed encased in a tough outer shell. Acorns are a valuable source of vitamins, proteins, minerals, and oils for wildlife, and they can sprout into giant trees that live for hundreds of years.