Bat conservation plan out for public comment
A draft conservation plan for the federally endangered Virginia big-eared bat is out for public comment through March 1.
Fish hatchery planning process moves forward
The U.S. Forest Service has completed its review of proposed renovations at the Bobby N. Setzer Fish Hatchery in the Pisgah National Forest near Brevard and determined that current environmental regulations allow the project to move forward.
Endangered Species Act decisions reached for hellbender, green salamander
The eastern hellbender does not deserve listing under the Endangered Species Act, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has decided, but the Hickory Nut Gorge green salamander, which was first described as a unique species in 2019, warrants a status review to consider listing.
Ecological opportunity: Ela Dam owner asks to let go of its hydropower license
The owner of Ela Dam, a 99-year-old structure that sits about half a mile above the confluence of the Tuckasegee and Oconaluftee rivers, is asking the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to let it surrender its license to generate power there.
Misfit Mountain seeks to help animals and owners alike
The holiday season is among the toughest times in the animal rescue world. Adopting pets isn’t always front of mind for people, and harsh weather can create a sense of urgency when rehoming furry friends.
Study reveals the red wolf’s ecological impact
According to a study published last month in the scientific journal Animal Conservation, wild red wolves in eastern North Carolina had a significant ecological impact prior to their dramatic decline in recent years.
Word from the Smokies: What we can learn from wild turkeys
If you plan to travel around Western North Carolina or East Tennessee to visit friends or family and eat turkey for the coming Thanksgiving holiday, there is a good chance you’ll spot a few wild turkeys along the way.
Zebra mussels found in N.C.
The zebra mussel, a harmful invasive aquatic species, has been confirmed in the wild for the first time in North Carolina.
Coming Soon: The broad-winged hawk migration
As we prepare for the arrival of fall, we can also be on the lookout for a breathtaking wildlife spectacle that is a part of life here in the Southern Appalachian Mountains: the migration of the broad-winged hawk.
Endangered status proposed for three mussel species
Three freshwater mussel species have been proposed for designation as endangered species under the federal Endangered Species Act. The Cumberland moccasinshell, Tennessee clubshell and Tennessee pigtoe all occur in the Tennessee River Basin, while the Cumberland moccasinshell and Tennessee clubshell are also found in the Cumberland River Basin.
