Smoky Mountain Field School

10/20/2026

🍁 October has arrived, cueing nature's most dazzling show. But did you know that some of those colors were there all along?

As days grow shorter and temperatures begin to drop, deciduous trees—those that shed their leaves—start their seasonal change. The green chlorophyll in the leaf begins to break down, revealing carotenoids—yellows and oranges—that were previously masked by the green pigment. At the same time, sugars trapped in the leaves help produce anthocyanins, the pigments behind autumn’s deep reds and purples.

🌳 Different trees = different hues (and the Smokies have over 100 species!)

So next time you’re admiring the autumn leaves, remember: it’s not just gorgeous, it’s science.

Learn more about fall color in the Smokies (link in comments).



NPS / Kenzie Connor Photo

10/12/2026

What are bears up to in October?

Hyperphagia is in full-swing. Bears may be awake and searching for food up to 20 hours a day. Many bears also look for den sites. Some pregnant females may den up by the end of the month. As days shorten, vehicle collisions rise.

★ Bears are eating more, sleeping less.
★ Bears den based on weather and food supply.
★ It's a dangerous month for bears.
★ Using non-food fall decorations helps protect bears.

Learn more about what bears are doing in October:
https://bearwise.org/what-bears-do-in-october/

Thanks for being BearWise and helping keep bears wild.

10/07/2026

Register today: tiny.utk.edu/QB1HG

09/29/2026

Big antlers, big attitude—bigger distance

During the rut (early September–late October), bulls use their antlers to posture, intimidate, and spar. At times, they may challenge anything they see as a threat, including vehicles or people who get too close.

Earlier in the year, bulls shed the previous season’s antlers and grow new ones under a velvet covering. By August, hormonal changes end the growth phase and the velvet is rubbed off, revealing polished antlers that can reach 55–60 inches long and weigh around 30 pounds per pair.

📸 Watch responsibly
▸ Keep your distance. Getting within 25 yards (75 feet) of elk, or causing them to change behavior, is dangerous and against federal law.
▸ Use pull‑offs to view elk from afar—never stop in the road.
▸ Never feed wildlife.

If an elk approaches you: back away immediately and give it plenty of space.

Learn more about elk in the Smokies (link in comments).



NPS / Bill Pattison Photo

09/24/2026

Register today: tiny.utk.edu/I1pT2

09/17/2026

🍂 With the change in leaves comes increased activity in some of our iconic wildlife. If you’re visiting the Smokies this fall, help us keep yourself, other visitors, and wildlife safe by following our wildlife viewing guidelines:

🦌 Elk rut season: Autumn brings the elk rut—when bulls clash antlers and bugle across the valleys. It’s an incredible sight, but elk can be unpredictable during this time. Always stay at least 25 yards away when viewing elk and do not enter closed fields.

🐻 Bear activity in the fall: Black bears are entering hyperphagia, a period of intense feeding to prepare for winter. They’re traveling more and foraging longer. When viewing bears, stay alert and give them space.

Wildlife viewing basics:
• Keep your distance
• Never feed wildlife
• Respect closures and follow volunteer/staff instructions
• Use pull-offs for viewing—never stop in the roadway

🔗 More information about elk and black bears can be found on our website (link in comments)

Left Photo by Paul Driessche, right photo by Sam Hobbs

09/08/2026

Register now: tiny.utk.edu/I1pT2

09/03/2026

WHAT ARE BEARS UP TO IN SEPTEMBER?

Bears enter hyperphagia in September and may look for food up to 20 hours a day. Berries, nuts and acorns are important fall bear foods. Bears can gain two to three pounds a day. Even bears that don’t hibernate eat as if they’re going to. Moms-to-be look for a good birthing den and nursery.

• Eating goes into hyperdrive
• It's peak time for an important bear food
• Bears are "nesting"
• About-to-be moms binge eat
• Cubs become curious

Learn more about what bears are doing in September: https://bearwise.org/what-bears-do-in-september/

Thanks for being BearWise and helping keep bears wild.

09/01/2026