Imagine a time when these animals darkened the prairies as far as you can see. Bison may be charismatic, but remember to watch for small mammals like the 13-lined ground squirrel that also helps keep the prairie ecosystem intact. Just Trying to Make a Living Reptiles and amphibians often get a bad name because of a few poisonous representatives. Most are harmless, and will try to avoid human contact. In general, they are like other creatures, just trying to survive in the wild.
American alligators share the ponds with smooth and spiny softshell turtles.
Bullfrogs and upland chorus frogs fill the night air with their calls. Each spring and fall, the prairie transforms into a bouquet of wildflowers. Indian paintbrush and bluebonnets are the first to bloom. Soon, they're joined by a colorful montage of blossoms swarming with butterflies and bees. Bring a wildflower and butterfly field guide and you'll be making long lists of species.