![]() ![]() Outdoor exhibits include interpretative signage throughout the chert glades, the trails and an on-site cave. A 1,300 gallon aquarium and terrarium system displays fish, turtles and snakes native to the area. Small children and others can easily use the Wentzscopes, which allow guests to view microscopic life in the water and see magnified samples of plant and animal life. Indoor and outdoor exhibits at the Audubon Center are suitable for all ages and educate guests on the chert glades ecosystem, the Missouri Ozarks, and the wildlife found in the Wildcat Glades. Species unique to the Wildcat Glades include the Neosho Mucket Mussel, the 2-inch long eastern narrowmouth toad and the cave salamander, known for a tail longer than its body. 48 of the seen species have been confirmed to nest in the area. Wildlife seen at the park includes 163 species of birds. Next to the nation’s last remaining chert glades are chert cliffs and savannah, bottomland forest, and the upland forest typical of the Ozarks, with oak and hickory trees. The variety of habitat at the Wildcat Park lends itself to spectacular bird watching. The Audubon Center trails also intersect with the City of Joplin trails, paved stretches of trail that are suitable for pets and cycling as well as hikers. ![]() The Rotary Centennial Trail is an easy hike to a viewing platform that overlooks a pond and the chert glades. The Bluff Trail overlooks Shoal Creek with a 50-foot climb up a chert bluff, which opens into Mother Nature's Gap, a large 40-foot deep fissure in the chert rock. Birds frequently seen along this trail include osprey and the belted kingfisher. John’s Creek Trail takes guests past the historic site of the Redings Mill Bridge, where the foundation of the old mill can still be seen. Over 4 miles of trails wind through the acreage of the Wildcat Glades and offer visitors everything from a leisurely stroll to a robust rugged hike. In partnership with the City of Joplin and the Missouri Department of Conservation, the Audubon Center teaches respect for nature, and lives what they teach through ongoing conservation efforts. ![]() The site is home to almost half the acreage of the world’s only 60 acres of Chert Glades, a wetlands habitat found only in southwest Missouri. The Wildcat Glades Conservation & Audubon Center is located in Joplin, Missouri, a small town in the southwestern corner of the state. You are reading "10 Best Things to Do in Joplin, Missouri " Back to TopĪttraction Spotlight: The Wildcat Glades Conservation & Audubon Center The Wildcat Glades Conservation and Audubon Center protects the vulnerable chert glades as well as the unique biodiversity of the area, while the George Washington Carver National Monument celebrates works of the world-famous scientist and naturalist George Washington Carver. Nature lovers will enjoy Grand Falls, which spills down 12 feet into a pool popular for swimming and fishing.
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