Welcome to the Swamp at Night!
When you hear the word “swamp,” what comes to mind? For many, it conjures up images of damp, murky, and perhaps even unpleasant places. But today, we know better. Swamps, or as they’re more aptly called, wetlands, are some of the most essential and vibrant ecosystems on the planet. These unique habitats, where land and water meet, do so much more than they’re given credit for — they purify water, protect against floods, and serve as a home to countless species.
At Wonders of Wildlife, we’ve brought the magic of the swamp to life with an immersive experience inspired by wetlands from the southeastern United States and even right here in Missouri. Towering two-story cypress trees draped in Spanish moss and a rustic barn set the perfect scene for this fascinating environment. Step into our swamp and discover a world teeming with life, from birds of prey to the stealthy alligator gar.
Explore the Barn: A Sanctuary for Raptors
Inside our barn, you’ll encounter some of nature’s most awe-inspiring hunters: raptors. The term “raptor” refers to birds of prey like eagles, owls, and more. Many of the birds you’ll see here have been rescued and now live in specially designed enclosures that cater to their needs. Sadly, most of these raptors cannot return to the wild due to injuries sustained in their natural habitats.
Perched high above the swamp in custom-built nests, these magnificent creatures serve as ambassadors for their species and help us highlight the critical importance of raptor rehabilitation programs. While these individual raptors cannot be reintroduced to the wild, their stories inspire hope — many other injured birds have been successfully rehabilitated and released, contributing to healthy populations.
Our conservation partners, including the Audubon Society, have played an instrumental role in these efforts. Since its founding in 1886, the Audubon Society has been dedicated to conserving and restoring ecosystems for birds, wildlife, and humans alike.
The Nocturnal Swamp Experience
The ecosystem and inhabitants of the swamp truly come alive at night. Most of its inhabitants are nocturnal, meaning they rest during the day and thrive under the cover of darkness. At Wonders of Wildlife, we’ve recreated this phenomenon with a reverse light cycle. Visitors can experience the swamp in its full nighttime glory, even during the day. Meanwhile, the animals experience a daytime light cycle scheduled for evenings, to ensure they experience their natural routines as they would in the wild.
Meet the Alligator Gar
No visit to the swamp is complete without meeting the alligator gar, the largest gar species in the world. These incredible fish can grow up to 10 feet long! With a snout that resembles an alligator’s sharp teeth capable of taking down large prey, they are true apex predators in their aquatic habitats.
A Collective Effort Conservation
We owe the preservation of places like these to organizations like the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, which unites state-level efforts to protect wild spaces. These agencies work to uphold principles like the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, which ensures that wildlife resources are conserved for all citizens.
As you cross the rope bridge and emerge from the swamp, take a moment to reflect on the diversity and resilience of this vital ecosystem. From its towering trees to its feathered and scaly inhabitants, the swamp offers endless opportunities to learn and marvel at nature's ingenuity. Look below and you will notice even more exhibits and animals - you still have so much to see as you continue your journey!