8 Animals That Call The Great Smoky Mountains Home

American Black Bear:

A symbol of the park, these bears are commonly spotted in the forested regions, adding to the allure of the natural landscape.

Elk:

Reintroduced to the park in 2001, elk sightings are now possible in the Cataloochee Valley area, offering visitors a glimpse into the park's diverse wildlife population.

White-tailed Deer:

These deer are a familiar sight throughout the park, often seen grazing in open areas or along roadsides, contributing to the park's rich biodiversity.

Wild Turkey:

Thanks to successful wildlife management efforts, wild turkeys can be easily spotted within the park, showcasing the effectiveness of conservation initiatives.

Eastern Gray Squirrel:

Ubiquitous in both forested areas and near human settlements within the park, these squirrels add charm to the natural environment with their presence.

Pileated Woodpecker:

Known for their distinctive call and striking appearance, these woodpeckers are among the largest species, enriching the park's avian diversity.

Red Fox:

Adaptable and widespread throughout the park, red fox sightings are more common at higher elevations, offering visitors a glimpse into the park's diverse ecosystem.

River Otter:

Once on the brink of extinction, successful reintroduction efforts in the 1990s have allowed river otters to thrive in the park's waterways, serving as a conservation success story.