The Great Smoky Mountains are home to a variety of wildlife. Black bears are by far the most popular, but you may see deer and wild turkeys as well. Researchers are constantly proving that there is still more life to be discovered here. Their hard work has unveiled even more creatures in the vast landscape. Read on to learn more about the latest discovery: several new species of millipede in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park!
What is a Millipede?
A millipede is a worm-like creature (also known as an arthropod) that can be brown or black in color. They can range from less than an inch to 5 inches long. Millipedes are named for their abundance of legs. In fact, they have a pair of legs on every body segment.
Millipedes are known as “recyclers” because they feed on dead plants, which helps clear the soil for new growth. As for special abilities, millipedes defend against predators, such as birds and frogs, by coiling into the soil and releasing a foul-smelling odor.
Millipedes in the Smokies
Scientists have discovered around 80 new species of millipedes in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. They hope to find even more! Millipedes thrive in damp environments, so they are most likely hiding under rocks in the park’s many creeks and streams. They are most active during cooler times of day, such as at night or in rainy weather.
Where to Find Them
Some well-known spots where millipedes can be found include Abrams Falls and Grotto Falls. These two hikes are easy routes, which makes them great for any hiker! When exploring any of the Smoky Mountain waterfalls, make sure you have sturdy shoes. Close-toed boots with good traction are the best choice. The area around the water may be slippery, and they will help you keep your balance!
Leave No Trace
If you do find one slithering along during your hike, it is important to follow the Leave No Trace guidelines. Refrain from picking the millipede up. Leave it on the ground and look closely with binoculars or a magnifying glass. Snap a picture to remember the interesting creature you found.
You should also avoid overturning rocks, digging holes, or otherwise disturbing the wildlife’s natural habitat. Respect the wildlife and keep the scenery beautiful for the next hikers. Thank you for doing your part!
Other Creatures to Look For
If you enjoy looking for small creatures near the water, you should also look for salamanders. The Smoky Mountains are deemed the “Salamander Capital of the World” because they are home to over 30 species. Salamanders are around the same size as millipedes and thrive in similar environments. Salamanders may be easier to spot, as some species dawn more vibrant colors than millipedes.
More Wildlife Research in the Smoky Mountains
We hope you enjoyed learning about the discovery of the new millipede species in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! If you want to learn about more research being done in the area, here are all the details of the hellbender study!
