When traveling to the Smoky Mountains, one can pretty much expect to see some wildlife. The sites and attractions do not keep the wildlife from making this special area home. It is commonplace for visitors to be able to see many of these creatures up close in their natural habitat. Thankfully, this state park is filled with forest and mountains that cannot be cleared and the indigenous animals are protected.
American naturalists are used to seeing certain forest creatures wherever they go. These include various species of deer (especially the White-tailed deer), rabbits, squirrels, chipmunks, raccoons and opossums. Birds such as quail, pheasants, ducks, Canada geese and common songbirds also are commonly seen. Of course, there are myriads of different fish, reptiles and amphibians around forest ponds, streams and lakes. Countless varieties of crawling and flying insects and arachnids do not even try to be inconspicuous to human invaders. These can readily be observed in the Great Smoky Mountain State Park and its surrounding areas; however, there are some indigenous fauna that are rarely seen and offer the patient and quiet naturalist a treat when spotted.
Among these are one of North America's largest land mammals, the black bear. Regardless of the size of these massive and strong beasts, they are actually quite shy. Black bears are usually loners unless they are mating or one is a sow with a litter of cubs. They prefer dense woods where they can forage for roots, berries, leaves and insects or small animals. Bears may also be spotted around remote streams, trying their paw at fishing for trout. Naturalists and photographers are urged to use extreme caution while close enough to a black bear to watch it. Even though they are shy, they have volatile tempers and are easily enraged with the strange scent of humans. This is especially true of mother bears and their babies. There have been numerous sitings of bears on the sides of the road. Several cubs have been spotted playing freely near major highways. Beware because anywhere a cub is, the mama is not far behind.
Perhaps a hiker may come across a red fox sneaking from his hole. These small, wild canines do a lot of hunting at night and are not usually seen. Since elk were introduced to the park, visitors may catch a glimpse of one dashing through the meadows or sipping from a placid pond at twilight. People who are observing at night may see a colony of bats swoop overhead or see an owl nosediving to catch a field mouse. Even though most people in the Southeast are used to hearing Whip-poor-Wills on warm summer evenings, the luckiest person may actually see one. Such a sighting is extremely rare. Different species of hawks and eagles are also a random sight. Beaver may also be seen on the odd occasion gnawing on a tree for its dam or underwater lodge. Its aquatic cousin, the otter, may make an appearance, too.
Visiting the Smoky Mountains is an experience that will inspire naturalists and other hobbyists alike. Whatever the reason to enjoy one of America's top national forests, visitors are asked to respect the land and its wild inhabitants for posterity. The forests and the wildlife may thank us with rare glimpse of themselves. It is a rare opportunity to see nature in their full glory and in all places a highly traveled tourist area.
Consider staying in a Smoky Mountain cabin rental to enhance your wildlife viewing experience. We have Smoky Mountain cabin rentals near both Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
