The Southern Appalachian Mountains are home to an abundance of diverse wildlife, including a wide selection of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The protected land at the Preserve at Rock Creek ensures that this perfect animal habitat is preserved permanently, creating a private mountain sanctuary for both the wildlife and the property owners that live here.
Our land was surveyed to discover just what species were living in the area. The findings were surprising because we found many more species than expected. Overall, 117 wildlife species were detected, including the positive identification of 9 endangered, threatened, or rare species. You can download our ecological survey for full details (9.6 MB).
Listed below are some of the highlights from each animal classification:
A Whitetail Deer
Mammals
White-tailed Deer, Southern Flying Squirrel, Grey Fox, Mink, Eastern Cottontail, Bobcat, Raccoon, Deer Mouse, Big Brown Bat
Fish
Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Blacknose Dace, Bluehead Chub, Redbreast Sunfish, Warpaint Shiners, and Longnose Dace (all found in Rock Creek)
Wild Turkey
Birds
Great Blue Heron, Mallard, Red-tailed Hawk, Wild Turkey, Great Horned Owl, Belted Kingfisher, Blue Jay, American Robin, Cedar Waxwing, Scarlet Tanager, Dark-eyed Junco, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Northern Mockingbird
Reptiles
Box Turtle, Garter Snake, Northern Water Snake
Amphibians
Spring Peeper, Bull Frog, Eastern Newt, Mountain Dusky Salamander, Two-lined Salamander
Endangered, Threatened, or Rare Species
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
Appalachian Yellow-bellied Sapsucker: This bird is identified by its characteristic horizontal rows of boring holes made within cove forests were observed throughout the project area. This observation indicates that Sapsuckers forage on site (most likely in winter).
Red-breasted Nuthatch: Individuals observed within the project area during spring but probably do not breed on site.
Southern Appalachian Salamander: Individuals were found throughout the project area within coves and ridge-tops. Although this species is locally common in appropriate habitat, it is endemic to southwestern North Carolina and has a very small distribution making it vulnerable to extinction.
Tawny Crescent: This butterfly was observed along a grassy road east of the “Grotto”. This observation is a new record for Transylvania County.
Brown Creeper: This bird was observed in coves, requires exfoliating bark on standing trees for nesting. May nest on site.
Given the breathtaking scenery, it's no wonder why so many species of animals live here! There is really only one way to truly experience the incredible natural beauty and diverse selection of wildlife here at the Preserve at Rock Creek, and that is to come and see it for yourself! Contact Tim Bright to schedule your visit today.
If you want to find out more about the area's "First Families", you can read my earlier post.
