What makes Beech Mountain special is the stunning wilderness that surrounds us. Our region is home to a diverse range of wildlife, from majestic mammals to fascinating birds. We are committed to promoting safe and responsible tourism to protect these natural habitats and ensure the safety of both our guests and the local wildlife. By educating visitors about the species that inhabit this area, we aim to foster a deeper appreciation for nature and the importance of conservation.

Whether you’re hiking, skiing, or simply enjoying the breathtaking views, we encourage everyone to respect the wildlife and their habitats. Observing animals in their natural environment can be a thrilling experience, and we believe that with increased awareness and responsible behavior, we can coexist harmoniously with the wildlife that makes Beech Mountain so unique. Our commitment to wildlife conservation extends to maintaining the integrity of their habitats and ensuring that our recreational activities do not disrupt their natural behaviors.

Black bears are an iconic species of the Appalachian region and play an essential role in our ecosystem. Interestingly, black bear cubs weigh only about 8 ounces when they are born, which is roughly the size of a stick of butter. As they grow, adult males can reach weights of up to 600 pounds, while females typically weigh around 350 pounds.

Their size and strength make them a fascinating sight in the wild, yet it is important to remember that these magnificent creatures thrive best when left undisturbed in their natural habitat.

Black bears primarily consume plant material, with 75% to 95% of their diet being vegetarian. This diet reflects their foraging nature, as they are more inclined to seek out berries, nuts, and other vegetation rather than expending energy hunting for small animals. Their foraging habits not only highlight their adaptability but also demonstrate their important role in seed dispersal, which contributes to the health of our forests.

The white-tailed deer is another fascinating inhabitant of Beech Mountain. The distinctive white tail of a deer serves as a built-in alarm system, signaling danger to other members of its herd. When a deer senses a threat, it raises its white tail, effectively communicating the presence of danger to its companions. This behavior showcases their remarkable instinct for survival and social interaction within their groups.

White-tailed deer possess incredible physical abilities that aid in their survival. They can jump vertically over 2.5 meters and horizontally up to 9 meters, which is almost the length of a school bus.

These impressive jumps allow them to navigate through dense vegetation and evade predators effectively. As they roam the mountains, these agile creatures play an important role in the ecosystem, helping to maintain the balance of plant life in their habitats.

The peregrine falcon is a remarkable bird of prey native to our region, known for its exceptional speed and keen eyesight. With a top recorded speed of 242 mph, the peregrine falcon is considered the fastest animal on the planet.

This incredible velocity enables it to dive from great heights to catch its prey, making it a true marvel of nature. Their remarkable hunting skills and adaptability to various environments highlight their role as a vital predator in the ecosystem.

In addition to their speed, peregrine falcons possess eyesight that is eight times better than that of humans. This superior vision allows them to spot potential prey from impressive distances, akin to seeing a rabbit from 17.6 football fields away. Their hunting prowess and adaptations to the environment make them a crucial component of the wildlife community in Beech Mountain.

Commonly known as “whistle-pigs” in Appalachia, groundhogs are fascinating rodents that contribute to the biodiversity of Beech Mountain. Their name stems from their characteristic high-pitched whistling sound, which serves as a warning to other groundhogs when they feel threatened.

This vocalization is an essential part of their social structure and helps them maintain awareness of their surroundings.

Groundhogs live in elaborate underground burrows that they dig themselves. These burrows not only provide shelter but also serve as a refuge during harsh weather conditions. Interestingly, while hibernating,  groundhogs often share their burrows with other animals, such as opossums, raccoons, skunks, and foxes, creating a unique communal living situation that offers protection from predators and the elements. This behavior showcases their adaptability and highlights the interconnectedness of species in the ecosystem.

Crows are among the most intelligent animals in the world, displaying remarkable problem-solving abilities and social behaviors. They have been observed building and using tools to find food, showcasing their capacity for creativity and innovation. This intelligence sets them apart and makes them a captivating species to observe in the wild.

Additionally, crows possess distinct dialects, and when a crow joins a new group, it will mimic the caw sounds of its new companions in an effort to blend in. This social adaptability is fascinating, as it highlights their ability to learn from one another and communicate effectively within their communities. Interestingly, crows are known to hold grudges against individuals who treat them poorly, and they have been observed informing their neighbors about potential dangers. This social learning aspect of their behavior reinforces the importance of understanding their role within the ecosystem.

The eastern coyote is a unique and intriguing species that can be found throughout the Beech Mountain area. Larger than its western counterpart, the eastern coyote exhibits slightly more wolf-like features, a result of hybridization with eastern wolves as they migrated eastward. This genetic blending has contributed to their adaptability and resilience in various environments.

Coyotes are highly vocal animals, known for their diverse repertoire of sounds, which can range from yips and howls to barks and growls. Their vocalizations can sometimes create the illusion of a larger pack, as two coyotes can sound like seven or eight due to the variety of sounds they produce. This ability to communicate effectively is crucial for their social structure and hunting strategies, making them an important species within the wildlife community.