Smoky Mountain Wildlife

Reptiles in the Smokies: Learn about the Turtles, Lizards and Snakes in the Smoky Mountains

Date: May 9, 2022

While you probably know that the Great Smoky Mountains are famous for their black bear residents, there are plenty of other critters found in the park too - including reptiles! There are three major groups of reptiles found within the park, including turtles, lizards and snakes. You’ll be happy to know that most of these reptiles are harmless and the chance of running into a venomous snake is very rare, but always remember to keep a “hands off” approach when viewing wildlife in the park! Read on to learn more about the snakes in the Smoky Mountains and other reptile friends:

Top 4 Places to See Bears in the Smoky Mountains

Date: March 28, 2022

Many visitors to Great Smoky Mountains National Park hope to catch at least one glimpse of the park’s famous black bear! It has been estimated that about 1,500 bears live in the park, which is equal to a population density of roughly two bears per square mile. Therefore, your odds are pretty good if you plan to spend any significant amount of time in the park! If you want to increase your chances of seeing a bear, there are several locations where sightings are especially common! Here are the top 4 places to see bears in the Smoky Mountains:

6 Facts You Should Know About Black Bears in the Smoky Mountains

Date: January 30, 2020

When you think of the Smoky Mountains, you probably also think of black bears. They’re just one of the many animals that live in the national park, but they are by far the most popular! Everyone wants to see a black bear while they are visiting, and we want to share some interesting things about these beautiful creatures! Check out these 5 facts you should know about black bears in the Smoky Mountains:

Top 5 Kinds of Wildlife in the Smoky Mountains You Might See

Date: August 23, 2019

The Smokies are known for diverse wildlife. The unofficial mascot is the black bear, but there are many other animals that live in this habitat. Check out the top 5 kinds of wildlife in the Smoky Mountains you might see:

Top 4 Things You Need to Know About Black Bears in the Smoky Mountains

Date: March 28, 2019

One of the things that visitors most want to see while exploring the Smoky Mountains is the black bear! While bears are fascinating to watch, it is important to keep in mind that they are wild animals with behavior that can be dangerous and unpredictable. Now that the winter season has ended, bears are starting to emerge from their winter dens so this is the perfect time to learn more about these amazing animals! Here are the top 4 things you need to know about black bears in the Smoky Mountains:

All You Need to Know About Seeing Animals in the Smoky Mountains During Winter

Date: December 31, 2018

The winter season is one of the best times of the year to view wildlife in the Smokies! The trees have shed their leaves so that you can see deeper into the depths of the forest where animals may be lurking. Also, wildlife such as elk and deer are active for longer periods during the daylight hours due to the colder temperatures. If you are planning a winter vacation to the Smokies, here is everything you need to know about seeing animals in the Smoky Mountains during the winter:

4 Helpful Tips for Birding in the Great Smoky Mountains

Date: November 15, 2018

The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the most visited park in the entire country, and it’s no wonder! Its exquisite beauty is found nowhere else, and while the park offers a great variety of scenery, it also provides an environment rich in native species. Over 60 types of birds live year-round within its wide mountain ranges. Even more stop in the Smokies during migration to forage for food. The list of birds that can be found here is always growing. Here are five great tips for Birders to enjoy these natural wonders!

Black Bear Spotted at Margaritaville Resort in Gatlinburg

Date: November 1, 2018

When you visit Gatlinburg, keep an eye out for black bears — even when you’re in your hotel! Recently, a visitor of the Margaritaville Resort in Gatlinburg spotted a bear wandering around the lobby. We’ve got all the info on the sighting of the black bear in Gatlinburg and what to do if you see a bear during your visit to the Smoky Mountains.