Blue Ridge Mountains: Wildlife And Conservation

The Blue Ridge Mountains are a part of the vast Appalachian range, and the black bear, white-tailed deer, and various species of salamanders thrive here. The ecosystem supports a wide array of fauna, and these animals play critical roles in maintaining the biodiversity within this iconic range. The conservation efforts are in place to ensure the preservation of their habitats.

Hey there, nature lovers! Get ready to ditch the city lights and dive headfirst into a world brimming with fur, feathers, scales, and everything in between. We’re talking about the Blue Ridge Mountains, a stunning slice of wilderness stretching across several states.

Think of the Blue Ridge Mountains as Earth’s very own wildlife party, a place where biodiversity is the guest of honor. Geographically, we’re looking at a significant chunk of the Appalachian Mountain range, winding its way through states like Georgia, North Carolina, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. It’s not just pretty scenery, though; this region is a serious player in the ecological game.

Why all the fuss about biodiversity, you ask? Well, it’s what makes our planet tick! The Blue Ridge Mountains are home to an incredible array of animal life, each playing a vital role in the ecosystem. From the majestic black bear to the tiniest of insects, every creature has its place. We are talking about mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates, a veritable Noah’s Ark of the Southern Appalachians!

So, buckle up because we’re about to embark on a wild ride. The goal? To explore the incredible animal life that calls the Blue Ridge Mountains home, understand the key ecological concepts that govern their lives, and discover the amazing conservation efforts underway to protect this natural treasure. Ready to meet some furry, scaly, and feathered friends? Let’s go!

Mammalian Marvels: A Look at the Blue Ridge’s Furry Residents

Okay, folks, let’s plunge headfirst into the furry, four-legged world of the Blue Ridge Mountains! This isn’t your average petting zoo; we’re talking about a wild kingdom brimming with fascinating mammals, each playing a vital role in this incredible ecosystem. Prepare to meet some of the Blue Ridge’s most charismatic residents, from the majestic black bear to the oh-so-sneaky bobcat.

Black Bear: The Mountain’s Gentle Giant (Mostly!)

The black bear! These apex predators are the undisputed kings and queens of the Blue Ridge, but don’t let the “apex predator” title scare you too much! They mostly munch on berries, nuts, and insects, occasionally supplementing their diet with a bit of scavenging. They play a crucial role in seed dispersal and keeping the forest floor tidy. They’re mostly gentle giants, but it’s important to respect their space.

Safety Tips for Hikers (Because Bears Deserve Their Space!):

• Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising a bear.
• Store food properly in bear-resistant canisters or hang it from a tree.
• Never approach or feed a bear. (A fed bear is a dead bear.)
• Carry bear spray and know how to use it.

White-tailed Deer: The Ever-Present Browsers

Ah, the white-tailed deer. These graceful creatures are everywhere in the Blue Ridge, and for good reason! They’re incredibly adaptable and efficient browsers, helping to shape the forest understory. Deer are essential for other animals such as bobcats and coyote as their primary food source. State wildlife agencies closely manage deer populations through hunting regulations to ensure a healthy balance within the ecosystem.

Bobcat: The Shadowy Hunter

Now, let’s talk about the bobcat. These elusive felines are the ninjas of the Blue Ridge, preferring to stay hidden in the shadows. They are solitary hunters, preying on small mammals, birds, and reptiles. Bobcats are well-adapted to diverse habitats, from forests to rocky outcrops. While they’re not currently listed as endangered, maintaining healthy habitats is crucial for their long-term survival.

Foxes (Red and Gray): Two Sides of the Same Coin

The Blue Ridge is home to two fox species: the red fox and the gray fox. Red foxes are known for their striking reddish-orange coat and prefer open woodlands and edges, while gray foxes boast a salt-and-pepper coat and are more adept at climbing trees, favoring dense forests. Both are opportunistic hunters, with rodents, rabbits, and birds on the menu. They are vital in controlling rodent populations.

Coyote: The New Kid on the Block (Sort Of)

The coyote is a relative newcomer to the Blue Ridge, but they’ve certainly made their presence known. Their adaptability has allowed them to expand their range throughout the region. Coyotes are opportunistic predators and scavengers, impacting native wildlife populations. Their presence has sparked debates about their role in the ecosystem.

Other Notable Mammals: A Quick Round-Up

The Blue Ridge is also teeming with other fascinating mammals, each with unique roles to play.

• River Otters: These playful critters are essential to aquatic ecosystems, helping to control fish populations.
• Raccoons & Opossums: The adaptable mammals can thrive in various habitats, scavenging and consuming almost anything.
• Skunks: The important omnivores and controlling insect populations are important to our ecosystem.
• Groundhogs: The diggers create burrows, aerating the soil and providing habitat for other animals.
• Squirrels, Mice, Voles, and Shrews: These small mammals form the base of the food chain, providing food for predators and playing a role in seed dispersal.
• Bats: These nocturnal fliers are crucial insectivores, helping to control insect populations and pollinating plants.

Many of these smaller mammals face conservation concerns due to habitat loss and fragmentation. Protecting their habitats is crucial to maintaining the biodiversity of the Blue Ridge.

Avian Wonders: Soaring Through the Blue Ridge Skies

Get ready to crane your necks and look up, folks, because we’re about to enter the world of feathered friends in the Blue Ridge Mountains! This place is a haven for birds of all shapes and sizes, each playing a crucial role in the mountain’s intricate ecosystem. So, grab your binoculars, and let’s take flight!

Game Birds: The Kings (and Queens) of the Forest Floor

First up, we’ve got the Wild Turkey, a true icon of the American wilderness. These big birds strut their stuff in the forests and fields, gobbling and foraging for food. It’s not just Thanksgiving dinner on the hoof; they’re also important seed dispersers and help keep insect populations in check. Hunting regulations for these guys are pretty strict, ensuring we have enough turkeys to gobble for years to come (sustainably, of course!).

Then there’s the Ruffed Grouse, a master of camouflage that blends seamlessly into the forest undergrowth. They love dense, young forests, where they find food and shelter. You might hear their drumming display – a low, thumping sound the males make to attract mates. Like turkeys, their hunting is managed through specific regulations to maintain healthy populations.

Common Songbirds: Nature’s Chorus

No mountain morning is complete without the sweet melodies of songbirds.

• The Northern Cardinal, with its brilliant red plumage, is hard to miss. These guys are year-round residents, adding a splash of color and a cheerful song to even the dreariest winter days. They’re not too picky about their habitat and can be found in gardens, woodlands, and thickets.

• The American Robin, a harbinger of spring, hops around lawns and gardens, pulling up worms with impressive precision. They are a welcome sight after a long winter. Their cheerful song and friendly demeanor make them a beloved backyard bird.

• The Blue Jay, is a noisy but intelligent bird, known for its striking blue, black, and white plumage. They have a varied diet, including nuts, seeds, insects, and occasionally, even small vertebrates! They are also master mimics, able to imitate the calls of hawks and other birds.

Woodpeckers: Forest Architects

Next, let’s meet the woodpeckers, nature’s carpenters!

• The Pileated Woodpecker, is a large, crow-sized bird with a striking red crest, excavates nest cavities and forages for insects in dead trees. They are the largest woodpecker in North America, and their distinctive calls and drumming can be heard throughout the forest.

• The Downy Woodpecker, is a small and common woodpecker that feeds on insects and helps control forest pests. They are the smallest woodpecker in North America and can be found in a wide range of habitats.

• The Red-bellied Woodpecker, despite its name, has a red cap and nape, but only a faint reddish tinge on its belly. They are opportunistic feeders, consuming insects, nuts, fruits, and seeds.

All of these help keep the forest healthy by controlling insect populations and creating nesting cavities for other animals.

Raptors: The Aerial Predators

Now, let’s look to the skies for the raptors, the top predators of the bird world. Hawks and Owls reign supreme, each with its own hunting style and prey preferences. Hawks are masters of daytime hunting, soaring high above the landscape, using their keen eyesight to spot prey. Owls, on the other hand, are nocturnal hunters, relying on their silent flight and exceptional hearing to locate prey in the dark. They help maintain the balance of the ecosystem by controlling populations of rodents and other small animals.

Other Notable Birds: A Supporting Cast of Feathered Friends

Of course, there are countless other birds that call the Blue Ridge Mountains home. Keep an eye out for warblers flitting through the trees, the Brown Thrasher mocking other bird calls, and the Eastern Phoebe perched on branches. Each of these birds plays a unique role in the ecosystem, contributing to the mountain’s rich biodiversity. Remember, every little bird counts!

Scales and Slime: Reptiles and Amphibians of the Blue Ridge

Alright, let’s get down and dirty with the scaled and slimy residents of the Blue Ridge! When you think of the Blue Ridge Mountains, you might picture sweeping vistas and cozy cabins, but beneath the surface, there’s a whole world of fascinating reptiles and amphibians waiting to be discovered. These critters play a crucial role in the ecosystem, and they’re way cooler than you might think. From chill turtles to sneaky snakes and slippery salamanders, let’s dive into this often-overlooked aspect of the mountains.

Turtles: Slow and Steady Wins the Race

The Blue Ridge is home to some adorable turtles. Two stars of the show are the Eastern Box Turtle and the Snapping Turtle. The Eastern Box Turtle is like the chill hiker of the turtle world, often spotted meandering through the forest floor. They’re known for their beautifully patterned shells and their super chill demeanor. These guys are terrestrial, which means they spend most of their time on land. Be careful driving, as these are frequent to the roadside when looking for a date.

On the other hand, the Snapping Turtle is the grumpy old man of the turtle world. These aquatic turtles are usually found lurking in ponds and slow-moving streams, waiting to ambush their prey. They’re not aggressive unless provoked, but trust me, you don’t want to provoke them. They have a powerful bite and a surprisingly long neck! Both of these turtle species, though super different, face conservation concerns due to habitat loss and, sadly, road mortality. So, keep an eye out when you’re driving!

Snakes: Slippery, Scaly, and Sometimes Scary

Now, let’s slither into the world of snakes! The Blue Ridge is home to a diverse group of snakes, some of which are totally harmless and others that you should give a wide berth. Among the non-venomous stars, we have the Black Rat Snake and the Garter Snake. Black Rat Snakes are like the friendly giants of the snake world. They are great climbers and help keep rodent populations in check. Garter Snakes, on the other hand, are smaller and love hanging out near water sources. They’re often brightly colored and are super common.

Of course, we can’t forget about the venomous snakes: the Copperhead and the Timber Rattlesnake. Copperheads are masters of camouflage and are often found in rocky areas. Timber Rattlesnakes are more reclusive and are usually found in forested areas. Both of these snakes have potent venom, so it’s essential to know how to identify them and what to do if you encounter one. Rule number one: give them space! Remember, they’re more scared of you than you are of them. But still, keep your distance.

Salamanders, Frogs, and Toads: Amphibian Extravaganza

Last but definitely not least, let’s hop into the world of amphibians! The Blue Ridge Mountains are a hotspot for salamander diversity, which is pretty awesome. These amphibians are super sensitive to environmental changes, making them excellent indicators of environmental health. If the salamanders are thriving, it’s a good sign that the ecosystem is doing well. Frogs and toads are also abundant, filling the air with their croaks and ribbits, especially after a good rain.

Salamanders are often found in moist habitats, like under rocks and logs. They come in all shapes and sizes, from the tiny Red-backed Salamander to the larger Hellbender. Frogs and toads can be found in a variety of habitats, from ponds and streams to forests and meadows. They play a crucial role in controlling insect populations. Sadly, like turtles, amphibian populations worldwide are declining due to habitat loss, pollution, and disease. It’s more important now than ever to protect their habitats!

Aquatic Life: Fish of the Rivers and Streams

Ever wondered what’s swimming around beneath the sparkling surface of the Blue Ridge Mountains’ rivers and streams? Get ready to dive in (not literally, unless you’re properly equipped!) to explore the fascinating world of the finned residents of this region. These underwater critters are more than just pretty faces; they’re vital to the health and balance of the entire ecosystem. Plus, some of them put up a heck of a fight on the end of a fishing line!

Trout: The Crown Jewels

Let’s kick things off with the stars of the show: Trout. These beauties are a major draw for anglers, and for good reason! They’re gorgeous, feisty, and delicious (if you’re into that sort of thing, of course). But more than just game fish, trout are indicators of pristine water quality. They need cold, clean, and well-oxygenated water to thrive.

Think of them as the canaries in the coal mine, but for rivers. Sadly, trout populations face challenges from habitat loss, pollution, and warming waters due to climate change. Luckily, conservation efforts are in full swing, with organizations working to restore streams, improve habitat, and ensure these iconic fish continue to grace our waters.

Smallmouth Bass: River Royalty

Next up, we have the Smallmouth Bass, sometimes called “smallies” or “bronzebacks.” These scrappy fighters are true river royalty, preferring rocky, clear streams and rivers. They’re ambush predators, lurking behind rocks and logs, waiting to pounce on unsuspecting prey. If you’re an angler looking for a challenge, hooking a smallmouth bass is a guaranteed thrill. The Smallmouth Bass also play a crucial role in the ecosystem by controlling populations of smaller fish and invertebrates.

Dace and Minnows: The Unsung Heroes

Now, let’s not forget the little guys! Dace and Minnows might not be as glamorous as trout or bass, but they’re essential to the food web. These tiny fish are like the popcorn of the aquatic world, providing a crucial food source for larger fish, birds, and even mammals. They may not be big, but they play a big role in keeping the river ecosystem humming.

River and Stream Ecosystems: A Delicate Balance

All these fish, big and small, live within a complex and delicate ecosystem. The health of the rivers and streams depends on many factors, including:

• Water quality: Clean, clear water is essential for fish survival.
• Habitat: Rocks, logs, and vegetation provide shelter and spawning grounds.
• Food availability: A healthy ecosystem provides a diverse food source for all fish.
• Connectivity: Undammed rivers allow fish to migrate and access different habitats.

Unfortunately, these ecosystems are under threat from pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change. That’s why it’s so important to protect these precious resources for future generations. By supporting conservation efforts, practicing responsible recreation, and advocating for clean water policies, we can help ensure that the rivers and streams of the Blue Ridge Mountains continue to teem with life.

Creepy Crawlies: Invertebrates and Their Vital Roles

Ever stopped to think about the tiny creatures that keep our world spinning? Probably not, right? Well, get ready to dive into the itty-bitty world of invertebrates in the Blue Ridge Mountains! These critters might not be as flashy as a black bear or as loud as a wild turkey, but they’re the unsung heroes of the ecosystem. They’re like the stagehands of a Broadway show – you don’t see them much, but without them, the whole production falls apart! From fluttering butterflies to scurrying spiders, these guys are essential to keeping the Blue Ridge Mountains healthy and thriving.

Butterflies and Moths: Nature’s Winged Jewels

Imagine a world without butterflies. Depressing, isn’t it? These colorful beauties (and their more subdued moth cousins) are more than just eye candy. They’re pollinators extraordinaire! As they flit from flower to flower, sipping nectar, they’re spreading pollen and helping plants reproduce. Think of them as nature’s matchmakers, ensuring that our forests and meadows stay vibrant and full of life. Different species prefer different habitats, so you’ll find a dazzling array of butterflies and moths throughout the Blue Ridge, from the mountain balds to the wooded valleys.

Spiders: The Eight-Legged Pest Control

Okay, spiders might not be everyone’s favorite, but hear me out! These amazing arachnids are natural-born predators, and they play a crucial role in keeping insect populations in check. Without spiders, we’d be overrun with bugs! From the intricate webs of orb-weavers to the stealthy hunting tactics of wolf spiders, these eight-legged wonders are masters of their craft. And the Blue Ridge Mountains are home to a huge variety of spiders, each with its own unique hunting style and habitat preference.

Insects: The Tiny Titans of the Ecosystem

When we talk about invertebrates, we just have to talk about insects. These guys are everywhere, and they do pretty much everything. Pollination? Check. Decomposition? Check. Nutrient cycling? Double check! From bees buzzing around wildflowers to beetles breaking down fallen logs, insects are the workhorses of the ecosystem. They’re also a vital food source for countless other animals, from birds and bats to fish and frogs. The diversity of insects in the Blue Ridge is simply astounding, and each species plays a crucial role in keeping the ecosystem humming along.

Freshwater Crayfish: The Underwater Clean-Up Crew

Don’t forget the crayfish, those miniature lobsters that scuttle around in our rivers and streams! These guys are more than just tasty snacks for otters and raccoons. They’re also important members of the aquatic clean-up crew, feeding on decaying plants and animals and helping to keep our waterways clean and healthy. Crayfish are also a vital link in the food web, providing a nutritious meal for a variety of other aquatic animals.

Ecological Tapestry: Understanding the Interconnectedness

Imagine the Blue Ridge Mountains not just as a pretty backdrop for your Instagram photos, but as a vibrant, breathing network of life. It’s a place where every plant, animal, and even that creepy-crawly under a rock has a role to play. Understanding these connections is key to appreciating the true magic of this place. Let’s pull back the curtain and peek at the intricate ecological dance happening here.

Appalachian Hardwood Forest: The Foundation of Life

Think of the Appalachian Hardwood Forest as the backbone of the Blue Ridge. This isn’t just any forest; it’s a biodiversity powerhouse. With a mix of oak, hickory, maple, and beech trees, it creates a rich and varied habitat. These trees provide food and shelter for countless animals, from black bears munching on acorns to songbirds nesting in the branches.

Ecological Dynamics: Habitat, Niche, and the Predator-Prey Tango

Let’s break down some eco-lingo:

• Habitat: The address where an organism lives – it’s the Black Bear’s forest or the Brook Trout’s stream.
• Niche: An organism’s job – its role in the ecosystem. The Pileated Woodpecker’s niche is finding insects within dead or decaying trees, and it helps control insect populations while providing nesting cavities for other species, too.
• Predator-Prey Relationships: Picture a hawk swooping down to catch a field mouse. That’s a classic example of predator-prey dynamics, a relationship where one species (the predator) hunts and eats another (the prey). This relationship keeps populations in check and maintains a healthy balance.

Food Webs: The Ultimate Interconnectedness

Food chains are simple; food webs are where the real action is. It’s not just about who eats whom, but how everything is connected. The sun’s energy is captured by plants, which are then eaten by herbivores, who are then eaten by carnivores, and so on. When something dies, decomposers break it down, returning nutrients to the soil, which helps new plants grow. All organisms that have a place in this circle are connected!

Biodiversity: Why Variety is the Spice of (Ecological) Life

Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in an ecosystem. The Blue Ridge Mountains are like a salad bar for animals! It also means greater resilience to environmental changes, such as disease or climate change.

Geographical Diversity: Up High and Down Low

The Blue Ridge Mountains aren’t just one big, green blob. They’re a patchwork of elevation gradients and climate zones, all impacting species distribution! As you climb higher, the temperature drops, and the types of plants and animals change. High-elevation areas might be home to species adapted to cooler climates, while lower elevations are warmer and more hospitable to others.

Notable Locations: Sanctuaries of Biodiversity

Certain spots within the Blue Ridge Mountains are super important for maintaining biodiversity:

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park: A globally significant area for salamander diversity.
• Mount Mitchell: The highest peak east of the Mississippi, home to unique high-elevation species.
• Blue Ridge Parkway: A scenic corridor that connects diverse habitats and provides opportunities for wildlife movement.
• Shenandoah National Park: Supports a variety of plant and animal life, including black bears, deer, and songbirds.

Human Impact and Conservation: Balancing Act

Alright, let’s get real about something: We humans, with all our good intentions and, let’s face it, some not-so-great habits, have a significant impact on our furry, feathery, scaly, and slimy neighbors in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s time to pull back the curtain and talk about how we’re affecting this incredible place and what we can do to make things right.

The Not-So-Pretty Side: Negative Impacts

Let’s not sugarcoat it. Our presence comes with some serious baggage. Think about it:

• Habitat Loss: We love building stuff, whether it’s cozy cabins or sprawling developments. But every time we clear a forest or pave a wetland, we’re taking away homes from the animals that live there. It’s like showing up uninvited and kicking them out of their living room!
• Deforestation: Trees aren’t just pretty; they’re the lungs of the planet and essential for countless species. When we chop them down, whether for timber or agriculture, we disrupt entire ecosystems.
• Climate Change: This one’s the biggie. Rising temperatures and changing weather patterns are throwing everything out of whack. Animals are struggling to adapt, and some might not make it.
• Pollution: From pesticides to plastic, our waste is finding its way into every nook and cranny of the Blue Ridge. This pollution can poison animals directly or contaminate their food and water sources.

The Tourism Tug-of-War

The Blue Ridge Mountains are a major draw for tourists, and that’s a double-edged sword. On the one hand, tourism brings money to the local economy, which can support conservation efforts. On the other hand, all those extra people can disturb wildlife, trample habitats, and leave behind a trail of trash. It’s a delicate balance between enjoying nature and loving it to death.

Rules of Engagement: Hunting and Fishing Regulations

Hunting and fishing aren’t inherently bad, but they need to be managed carefully. That’s where regulations come in. These rules help ensure that we’re not overharvesting any species and that we’re maintaining healthy populations for future generations. Think of it as sustainable snacking for humans and a fair chance for the critters.

Conservation to the Rescue: Strategies to Protect Wildlife

Fortunately, there are plenty of people working hard to protect the Blue Ridge Mountains. These heroes employ various strategies to help wildlife thrive:

• Habitat Restoration: Planting trees, restoring wetlands, and cleaning up polluted areas can help rebuild ecosystems and provide homes for animals.
• Protected Areas: National parks, forests, and wildlife refuges offer safe havens for wildlife, where they can live and breed without being disturbed.
• Education and Awareness: The more people understand the importance of conservation, the more likely they are to support it.

Facing the Invaders: Threats to Biodiversity

The Blue Ridge Mountains face threats from both ends of the spectrum: endangered species and invasive species. Endangered species need our help to recover their populations, while invasive species can outcompete native wildlife and disrupt ecosystems. It’s like a never-ending game of ecological whack-a-mole.

Guardians of the Mountains: Conservation Organizations at Work

It’s not just the bears and the bobcats doing their thing out there; there’s a whole crew of dedicated organizations working tirelessly behind the scenes to keep the Blue Ridge Mountains wild and wonderful! Think of them as the ‘A-Team’ for nature, but instead of a van, they’ve got spreadsheets and a whole lot of passion! Let’s meet some of the key players ensuring the Blue Ridge remains a haven for its furry, feathered, and scaled residents.

National Park Service (NPS) and US Forest Service (USFS): The Big Guns

These are the heavy hitters! The National Park Service and the US Forest Service are like the landowners of vast swathes of the Blue Ridge. They’re responsible for managing and conserving the natural resources within their respective parks and forests. Think of it as running a massive, incredibly beautiful, and critically important nature preserve. They handle everything from trail maintenance and visitor education to large-scale habitat restoration projects. The NPS focuses on preservation and visitor experience within National Parks, while the USFS manages forests for multiple uses, including recreation, timber harvest, and wildlife habitat. They are the cornerstones of conservation in the region.

State Wildlife Agencies: The Local Heroes

Each state that shares the Blue Ridge (think Virginia, North Carolina, etc.) has its own State Wildlife Agency. These agencies are boots-on-the-ground folks when it comes to managing wildlife populations, enforcing hunting and fishing regulations, and conducting research. They’re the ones tracking deer populations, monitoring fish stocks, and making sure everyone’s playing by the rules when it comes to interacting with wildlife. They’re also key in addressing human-wildlife conflict and promoting responsible outdoor recreation. Basically, they’re the local experts ensuring the health and sustainability of the region’s wildlife.

The Nature Conservancy: The Land Protectors

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is a global organization with a significant presence in the Blue Ridge. These guys are all about protecting land and water, which, as you can imagine, is pretty darn important for wildlife! They work with landowners, communities, and other organizations to acquire land, establish conservation easements, and implement sustainable management practices. Imagine them as the real estate moguls of the conservation world, but instead of building condos, they’re protecting critical habitats. Their efforts help to ensure that wildlife has the space it needs to thrive.

Other Conservation Groups: The Underdogs (in a Good Way!)

Beyond the big names, there are tons of smaller or local conservation organizations making a huge difference. These groups often focus on specific issues or regions within the Blue Ridge. They may be involved in stream restoration, invasive species removal, or educational outreach. These smaller organizations are the heart and soul of grassroots conservation, and their dedication is essential to the overall effort. So next time you’re hiking in the Blue Ridge and see a local conservation group at work, give them a shout-out – they deserve it!

So, next time you’re hiking through the Blue Ridge, keep your eyes peeled! You never know what incredible creature might cross your path. Whether it’s a soaring hawk or a sneaky salamander, the mountains are full of amazing wildlife just waiting to be discovered. Happy trails, and happy wildlife spotting!