Grandfather Mountain is well known for its black bears. But if you think the mountain’s most abundant animal weighs 300 pounds and is covered in fur, think again.
And think smaller.
On Saturday, May 7, Grandfather Mountain will celebrate the salamander, the most prolific terrestrial vertebrate at the Linville-based attraction, as well as forest ecosystems throughout the world.
As part of Salamander Saturday, an initiative organized by the Foundation for the Conservation of Salamanders (FCSal), Grandfather Mountain will offer special programming, including kids’ activities, nature walks, interactive exhibits and a chance to hob nob with the amphibian of the hour. All activities are included with regular admission.
“We’re participating in Salamander Saturday because it’s an international effort to raise awareness of what I consider hidden biodiversity,” said Mickey Shortt, director of education and natural resources for the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation. “In other words, the Southern Appalachians are a hotspot for salamander diversity. Over 20 species have been recorded on Grandfather Mountain, and few people recognize this amazing resource that we have.”
Furthermore, some are quite unique to the area, such as the Weller’s and pygmy salamanders, both of which are found in wet, cool, high-elevation spruce-fir forests, such as those at Grandfather Mountain.
“These high-elevation forests are uncommon in North Carolina,” Shortt said.
The fun starts at 9 a.m., when Grandfather Mountain opens its gates for the day. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., guests can stop by one of four interactive tables in the Nature Museum, where they’ll have the opportunity to see a Hellbender salamander and learn about the species that reside on the mountain.
At 11:30 a.m., staff naturalists will present a special Junior Ranger program on salamanders. During the program, which starts at the mountain’s Butterfly Garden, kids (ages 5 to 12) will also learn how to become a Grandfather Mountain Junior Ranger.
At 3 p.m., staff naturalists will lead a Salamander Walk through the mountain’s Woods Walk trail, helping guests identify the local amphibians and learn about their important role in the ecosystem.
Meanwhile, throughout the day, the North Carolina Herpetological Society will hold its spring meeting. The meeting runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Nature Museum Auditorium, and those interested in attending may register by visiting www.ncherps.org.
“Anyone can participate in Salamander Saturday,” Shortt said.
For more information, call (828) 733-4326, or visit www.grandfather.com.