Discover Nature Notes

WHY HEALTHY DEER MATTER AND HOW YOU CAN HELP:  Over the last 100 years, Missouri's white-tailed deer were brought back from an all-time low of 400 to more than 1.2 million today.  They're one of our most valuable species for outdoor recreation, jobs and tourism.  The work of keeping our deer herd healthy today is as important as the early work to restore them.  Scientists work with hunters and landowners to prevent the spread of disease, especially Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), which is always fatal.  Learn more about deer health, CWD, and mandatory testing in this week's Discover Nature Note.

ARE YOU A DABBLER OR A DIVER:  Do you like to skim along the surface or go deep?  Learn the differences between dabbling ducks and diving ducks and how you can look for three dabblers winging their way through Missouri in this week's Discover Nature Note blog. 

WOOLLY BEAR MYTHS AND FACTS:  These fuzzy caterpillars are out crossing roads now.  Why do they do that and can they really predict weather?  Explore fun facts about them and learn what they turn into in this week's Discover Nature Notes blog.

NATURAL DIFFERENCES: Ever wonder why the males and females of some species look different? They may vary in size, coloration or behavior. Seasonal decorations can help some animals distinguish males from females. Learn and see more in this week's Discover Nature Note.