It’s a great thing that we still identify new species that we have never seen in our wilderness before!Did you know that the Smokies were a refugium for many species during the last ice age?
To escape the frigid climate, organisms gradually migrated south, ending up in the Smokies. Similar to this phenomena, this Lapland Longspur, a common migratory species of the arctic tundra, was spotted in Cades Cove this week, likely escaping the recent arctic blast that hit a large part of the United States. It was the first time this species was recorded in the park. You can help report species you see in the park by participating in SnapIt & MapIt with park partner Discover Life in America. Who knows, you may spot something never seen before!
dlia.org/snapit-mapit/
Photo by: Bob Howdeshell; Image Description: A light brown and black Lapland Longspur on the ground surrounded by snow. ... See MoreSee Less
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Fall/Winter collision in the Smokies! ... See MoreSee Less
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“I highly recommend this company and this hike!”
