Asheville is cradled within one of the most unique ecosystems in the world. As a temperate rainforest, the southeast Appalachian Mountains experience a full range of environmental change. Our weather is both dramatic enough to give us four distinct seasons and mild enough to allow for an enormous diversity of plant and animal life all year round.

As the year closes, the fire of autumn ultimately burns through the deciduous canopy, leaving our trees waiting solemnly for spring. Though the hills of winter may seem bleak compared to summer and autumn, don’t be fooled by one of nature’s most clever disguises. Life is still close to the surface in winter, in the wild and here at the WNC Nature Center.

The habitats and walkways at the Center are designed to incorporate the native environments of the animals and showcase the changing foliage. The wildlife species are native to this area and can be seen every month of the year. Despite the coming cold—and often because of it—the animals are as active as ever. As temperatures cool, many feel more inclined to play and explore during the daylight hours. Each species is naturally equipped for the weather change, so don your own winter coats and come see what happens in the wild this winter.

One species in particular remains iconic for the colder months. Native to, but now extinct in the wild of Western North Carolina, the gray wolf is ideally adapted to surviving in the snowy climate of this area and their western ranges. The endangered red wolf is just as active this time of year.

On November 8 and 17, you can visit with our gray wolves Cody and Shalimar and our red wolves Rufus, Angel, and Mayo during our Wolf Howl events. Learn the natural history of both species and howl with all five of our wolves. Experience up close the apex predator of our mountains!

The animals know that winter is only a different kind of playground. Come see how natural adaptations allow our native species to thrive in all seasons, and find a new way to enjoy the winter months.

For more information about the WNC Nature Center, call 828.298.5600 or visit wildwnc.org. The Center, 75 Gashes Creed Road, is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and features more than 250 animals native to the Southern Appalachians.