As I have discussed in previous blogs, I prefer conservation areas and other naturalized preserves to the people-friendly environment of nature centers and State Parks. Wildness and solitude are more inviting to me than manicured trails, comfort facilities and crowds.
One of my favorite areas in central Missouri is the Davisdale Conservation Area, northeast of Boonville. Stretching across and atop the north wall of the Missouri River Valley, this 2700 acre preserve is a mix of forest, wooded meadows, crop fields and wetlands. Stream channels provide topographic relief and a number of old farm ponds add to the natural diversity. Access to this appealing retreat is via a network of graveled roads and foot trails.
As one might expect, this large area, stitched together from abandoned farms, attracts an excellent variety of wildlife. Those who visit early or late in the day have a good chance of seeing white-tailed deer, red fox, raccoons and the occasional coyote. The open country of Davisdale is especially good for raptor viewing; red-tailed hawks, great-horned owls and American kestrels are common here throughout the year, joined by rough-legged hawks in winter. Of course, a wide variety of songbirds, reptiles and amphibians also inhabit the refuge and there is no better time to visit than the mild, sunny days of early autumn.
