Kelso Sanctuary Natural Area
CAPE GIRARDEAU 123 Kelso Sanctuary
Spotted Salamander
A 23-acre portion of the R. Kelso Wildlife Sanctuary, in Section 21, T31N, R14E, Cape Girardeau 7.5 min. topographic map. Designated November 26, 1984.
Natural Features
A rich mesic forest with tulip poplar and beech. This particular forest type is common in the eastern United States and reaches its western limit in Missouri. It is restricted to north-facing slopes and protected coves in southeastern Missouri counties. The area is situated along a steep bluff along the Mississippi River in the Ozark Border Natural Division. The very steeply dissected ridge and ravines are developed in sedimentary rock with wind blown loess covering the surface. An ephemeral sinkhole pond along the lower slope provides breeding habitat for frogs and salamanders in the early spring. Other forest species found here are northern red oak, shagbark hickory, spice bush, sassafras, broad beech fern, doll's eyes and the rare pennywort. Students and faculty of Southeast Missouri State University use the area for research and classroom projects. Comprehensive observation lists for birds, mammals, vascular plants, amphibians and reptiles are available for visitors. The natural area is owned by the Audubon Society of Missouri. Southeast Missouri State University cares for the area under a lease agreement with the owner. Additional lands surrounding the natural area are owned by the university. For further information contact John Sharpe, Biology Department, Southeast Missouri State University, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701, phone 573/651-2170.
