WNC Nature Center coyote Barney passes away

Asheville -- City of Ashevile Community News July 23, 2021 by Polly McDaaniel

It is with great sadness that the WNC Nature Center announces the passing of one of its most well-known and cherished residents.

Beloved coyote Barney passed away July 22. He had been struggling with health issues over the past few months and was not responding to medical treatment. One of the older residents of the Nature Center at age 15, Barney joined the Nature Center family in April 2006 after he was found as an orphaned pup nearby.

“Barney was very popular with guests and staff alike for over a decade and a half and will be missed by all,” said WNC Nature Center Director Chris Gentile.  “As a lifelong resident of the Nature Center, tens of thousands of visitors had the opportunity to get to know him and to learn more about coyotes. He was a great ambassador.”  

“The animal care team and the rest of the Nature Center staff will miss him dearly,” said Nature Center Animal Curator Erin Oldread. 

The City of Asheville’s 42-acre WNC Nature Center, at 75 Gashes Creek Road, is home to over sixty species of animals native to the Southern Appalachian Mountain region.  Its mission is to connect people to the area’s natural resources and to advance conservation of native species.  The Nature Center is proud to be accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums – the gold standard for animal care and welfare.  For more information about the WNC Nature Center or for tickets, visit wildwnc.org. or call 828-259-8080.