News

Featuring wildlife experts Kim Delozier and Dr. Dave Unger, the annual Mountain Wildlife Days offers new and diverse programs for all ages as it returns to Sapphire Valley Resort on July 18 and 19, 2014.

CCC News MountainWildlifeDays MainOn Saturday July 19, Kim Delozier, a 32 year retired ranger with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and author of “Bear in the Back Seat” will share some of his exciting encounters with wildlife found in his popular best-selling book.  In a unique presentation titled “What Little Red Riding Hood Didn’t Tell You About the Big, GOOD Wolf”, Dr. Dave Unger, a talented presenter and biology professor from Maryville College, TN; takes the audience into the world of mammals in an interesting and insightful look at wildlife.

Also on Saturday, an area favorite Michael Skinner of the Balsam Mountain Nature Center, will provide an opportunity to better understand wildlife during his “Wings N’ Things” presentation focusing on “live” birds of prey and other animals.   The North Georgia Zoo will present their outstanding “Wildlife Wonders” program designed to get up close and learn more about a variety of familiar and unusual animals.

A gospel bluegrass concert by Pinnacle Ridge, will open the July 18, Friday evening’s Caring for God’s Creation” portion of Mountain Wildlife Days. Following the music, the audience will continued to be uplifted in a unique spiritual way featuring Bill Lea’s world class nature photography along with his inspiring commentary. Lea’s presentation will be enhanced with a beautiful “live” musical backdrop by noted pianist/arranger, Bryan Heller.

A featured activity during the day on Friday July 18 will involve “Wildlife Warrior” Steve O’Neil, a very dedicated advocate for “wild lives and wild places”. At 3 pm O’Neil, will share his expertise as experienced reptile and amphibian presentation with Sapphire Valley Resort campers along with other area children and adults in a program titled “Our Most Misunderstood Wildlife”.

On Friday morning, opportunities are provided to experience the beauty of nature found all around us in Western North Carolina.  Activities include a bird walk, led by the Highlands Plateau Audubon Society, a “bear walk and talk” along with two moderate to easy hikes with sites to be announced later. These will be led by outdoor enthusiasts and are open to the public. Those interested are requested to reserve a space by calling 828-743-7663.  

More information is available by going to: www.mountianwildlifedays.com