The best of WNC's Natural Treasures Awaits You at Your Doorstep
A survey by Equinox Environmental identified 233 species of plants and wildlife, many endangered, that live in the Laurel Mountain Preserve.
The study also identified 45 species from the surrounding area likely to migrate to Laurel Mountain as its pristine, lush environment is like a magnet calling to all sorts of plants and wildlife in the immediate area. Hickory nut game lands and private forests surround and insulate Laurel Mountain Preserve with Pisgah National Forest in close proximity.
Our hiking trails allow residents easy access to it all, including the countless flocks of migratory birds as well as being on the path of the Monarch butterfly who come through the preserve in the change of seasons.
33 varieties of birds, including 19 rare species like Red Tailed Hawk, Scarlet Tanagers and Barred Owl, live in the Preserve.
133 varieties of wildflowers, including 12 rare species such as Galax and Broadleaf Coreopsis, plus 7 varieties of butterflies, such as the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, create a colorful tapestry.
13 species of mammals, amphibians and reptiles such as the Eastern Cotton Tail, White Tailed Deer and Eastern Box Turtle are inhabitants of the Preserve.
Plus 7 types of forest, Montane Oak Hickory, Chestnut Oak, Submesic Oak, Mesic Oak, Acidic Cove, plus an increasingly rare Rich Cove as well as Old Growth forest.
To request a complete list of wildlife to be found at Laurel Mountain Preserve, click here.