Squirrels and chipmunks:There are five species of squirrel that live on the App Trail, the gray squirrel, fox squirrel, red squirrel, northern flying squirrel, and southern flying squirrel.
Snakes:There are all sorts of snakes around the Appalachian Trail. The most common are black rat snakes, gray rat snakes, copperheads, and timber rattlesnakes.
Skunks:Although you don’t want to encounter skunks, it’s a distinct possibility on the AT. They are scavengers and will try for anything left out but don’t like to be around humans that much.
Raccoons:Trash pandas (raccoons) are quite common around the Trail! In fact, these little mammals are known for stealing food and causing a ruckus around camp.
Moose:These massive members of the deer family aren’t present in the southern states, however, and only become a possibility once you cross the Vermont state line.
Elk: elk roamed the Appalachian Mountains but went extinct. Incredibly, they have recently been reintroduced as a conservation project.
Deer:Although not as exciting as elk, whitetail deer are another common site across the AT. Most sightings are at a distance as they are quite skittish animals.
Coyotes:Commonly mistaken for wolves, coyotes are often seen in small groups or by themselves around the trail. They aren’t fond of humans and generally stay away, although they can be dangerous if approached.
Boar:Wild boars are large pigs that roam most of the United States. The AT is no different, and boar are common across much of the range.
Black bear:Of the two species of bear that live in the United States, the black bear is the only one that lives along the Appalachian Trail.
Birds:The most common animals a hiker on the AT (Appalachian Trail) is likely to see are birds. There are hundreds of species of birds across the US.
Barred Owl:The barred owl is one of the largest in the owl family. Usually found on the East Coast, this symbol of wisdom also can be found on the Appalachian Trail.