Birds

At last count at least 246 species of birds have been recorded in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  61 of these are considered permanent residents, meaning they are here round and at least 110 are known to breed in the park. Besides being a home and a breeding ground to some species, the park is also a stop-over point for migratory birds. The dramatic range of topography and elevation make this a perfect home for birds of all types. From small perching birds like mockingbirds or thrashers to vultures, hawks and other birds of prey this is an ornithological playground.

The time of year that you visit the park may change which birds you see and get to experience while you are here. March in the lower lavations, brings the first song birds to the area as the migrate north, by April these birds are at the peak of their nesting activity. In summer, the lowland birds are starting on their second set of baby birds while in the highlands they have just started on their first. Fall brings the start of the migration season, with birds leaving for the south and others birds coming to the area for the winter.

During the spring and summer months with the forest in full bloom and the leaves covering the trees you will hear more birds than you will see. Keep the binoculars handy and listen for bird-song in the air. When you hear the birds stop, look and listen. Figure out where they are coming from and you might be rewarded with a glimpse of something amazing. If you are in a clear spot look to the skies. You might get to see a vulture gliding through the sky or better yet a hawk dropping down for its noon day meal.

Birds Amphibians Fish Mammals Reptiles Synchronous Fireflies