Many of the varieties of wild animals that existed at the time Daniel Boone explored the wilderness are still found in the National Forest. There are more than 100 species of birds, 46 kinds of mammals, and 67 types of reptiles and amphibians. Endangered species, including plants, are resident on the Forest. Bald eagles have attempted nesting and osprey are being released on Laurel River Lake. Wild turkey and white-tailed deer are making a comeback and ruffed grouse, gray and fox squirrels, red and gray foxes, ducks, bobwhite quail, rabbits, muskrats, mink, and raccoons are common.
Pioneer Weapons Hunting Area is an excellent place for observing wildlife. The name may sound scary, but it's actually a place where modern weapons are not allowed and the land is managed to maximize the presence of wildlife. You'll find it adjacent to Cave Run Lake in the Morehead Ranger District. Here hunters can use old-time weapons including the long bow, cross bow and muzzleloading rifles, shotguns, and pistols to kill deer, wild turkey, squirrels, and ruffed grouse. Several trails in the area provide access for hikers, horseriders, and bicyclists and, in season, hunters.
The Forest Service, in cooperation with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, volunteers, and many organizations, manages the wildlife habitat. The wildlife program includes managing timber stands for wildlife benefits and the development of wildlife food plots, waterholes, clearings, and other habitat improvements.
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