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Experience Eagle Days in Missouri on the following dates: Dec 1-2, 2007 Squaw Creek (Mound City) Jan 5-6, 2008 Smithville & Lake Ozark Jan 19-20, 2008 St. Louis & Springfield Jan 26-27, 2008 Clarksville Feb 2, 2008 Schell-Osage http://www.mdc.mo.gov/events/eagledays/index.htm

Footage of a research student as he was collecting information about this rare species in Missouri. The turtle nabbed the researcher's finger as he was removing it from the net in preparation of taking measurements. The researcher used a special tool to help pry his finger free from the turtle's mouth without harming the turtle. The researcher suffering a cracked fingernail and a nasty cut around his finger and recovered from his wounds. The turtle was released back to the wild unharmed. This "small" alligator snapping turtle weighed close to 30 pounds. The largest alligator snapping turtle found in Missouri weighed 128 pounds. People should not handle nor fear these turtles. If you’re swimming or fishing near them, their best interest is to get out of your way. The inherent risks involved in handling wildlife are part of the danger research scientists face while studying these fascinating creatures. http://www.mdc.mo.gov/nathis/endangered/endanger/allsnap/

Get valuable safety tips when climbing your tree stand.

Rockwoods Reservation Conservation Area is located west of St. Louis.

Alligator snapping turtles are the largest turtles in Missouri, weighing up to 150 pounds with shells that are more than 2 feet long. Found primarily in the southeast corner of the state, these endangered turtles catch fish by luring them close with a special tip on their tongue that looks like a worm. The Missouri Department of Conservation is monitoring these unique reptiles to learn more about there habits and habitats in an effort to improve their chances of survival. http://mdc.mo.gov