Are you planning a visit to our cabins and looking for more things to do? If so, you should definitely check out the Smokies. One of the most exciting parts of being there is the opportunity to spot wildlife. There are specific areas where certain animals are populous. Read on to learn about some of them. Here is your guide on where to find animals in the Smoky Mountains:
Black Bears: Cades Cove
Black bears have a population of more than 1,500, which makes them the most popular animal in the Smoky Mountains. Unique characteristics, such as their claws, allow them to live at any elevation. Even so, black bears tend to inhabit the low fields of Cades Cove. This area of the national park receives the most visitors. Bears are most active during the summer months at dawn and dusk every day. If you see a black bear while you’re here, you don’t have to be afraid. You’ll be relieved to know that they are very accustomed to being around people. They will leave you alone as long as you stay far enough away and don't invade their space. An important safety tip is to maintain a distance of 150 feet or more away from big wildlife. You should still keep your food secure and look out for signs of bears, which include trackings, droppings, and overturned logs.
Salamanders: Grotto Falls
One of the smaller animals in the Smoky Mountains are salamanders. They have an abundant population, which is why the area is deemed the “Salamander Capital of the World.” A great habitat for them is Grotto Falls. They love cooling off in the water and hiding under rocks. They come in different colors and sizes. Hellbenders are the longest species, as they can be up to 29 inches. They also have unique characteristics, such as the ability to breathe through their skin and regenerate limbs and organs. While salamanders aren’t nearly as big as black bears, it is still important to respect their space. If you do find one around the many waterfalls, refrain from moving it around and do your best to leave any overturned rocks exactly as you found them.
White-Tailed Deer: Cades Cove
White-tailed deer are one of the popular animals on the Tennessee side of the Smoky Mountains. They have many unique abilities that keep them safe and away from predators such as bears and coyotes. White-tailed deer can run at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour and jump to heights of up to 10 feet. They are also very good swimmers, as they can swim at speeds of up to 13 miles per hour. As for their senses, white-tailed deer have great hearing abilities because their ears face two different directions. This means they can hear sounds without moving their head. While in the Smokies, you will most likely see white-tailed deer in open field areas, such as Cades Cove. In the summer months, they are most active every day just before dawn. When it gets colder, they are active in the middle of the day. Follow the same guidelines for viewing black bears if you see one during your visit. That is, you stay within 150 feet or more away.
Now you know where to find animals in the Smoky Mountains! Want to learn more? Check out our other list of things you need to know about wildlife in the Smoky Mountains!
