Included in this area are the Blue Ridge, the Ridge and Valley region, the Cumberland Plateau, the Ohio Hills, and the Allegheny Plateau. The rugged terrain is generally dominated by oak-hickory and other deciduous forest types at lower elevations and various combinations of pine, hemlock, spruce, and fir in higher areas. While flatter portions are in agricultural use, the majority of most segments of this region are forested. Priority forest birds include Cerulean Warbler at low elevations and Black-throated Blue Warbler higher up. Golden-winged Warblers are in early succession areas and Henslow's Sparrows in grasslands. While not as important for waterfowl as coastal regions, the Appalachian region contains the headwaters of several major Eastern river systems that are used by various waterfowl species during migration. In addition, large wetland complexes such as Canaan Valley in West Virginia and isolated wetlands created by beaver provide Wood Duck breeding habitat.

ABC-designated Globally Important Bird Areas in this BCR

Allegheny National Forest including Hickory Creek Wilderness Area and Hearts Content Natural Area

Chattahoochee National Forest

Cherokee National Forest

Daniel Boone National Forest

Frozen Head State Park and Royal Blue Wildlife Management Area

George Washington National Forest

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, including Kittatinny Ridge

Jefferson National Forest

Nantahala National Forest

Shenandoah National Park, including Blue Ridge Parkway Mount Zion (Piney Tract)

Talladega National Forest, including Oakmulgee Ranger District

Tionesta Scenic and Research Natural Area (Allegheny National Forest)

William B. Bankhead National Forest