Voices of the Forest: An Interview with Park Ranger Davis

Reporter: Today, we are speaking with Ranger Marcus Davis at the Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois. Ranger Davis, thank you for taking the time to talk with us! To start off, what makes the Shawnee National Forest such a unique place for wildlife?

Ranger Davis: Hello! I am so glad to share my love for this forest. Shawnee National Forest is special because of its amazing natural variety. Nestled between the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, the forest contains rolling hills, deep ravines, oak trees, and dramatic sandstone cliffs. Because southern Illinois sits where several different natural environments meet, we have a fascinating mix of habitats. You can find animals here that typically live in northern woodlands, as well as species more common in the southern United States.

Reporter: That sounds incredible! What are some of the animals that live in the forest?

Ranger Davis: Visitors frequently spot white-tailed deer leaping through the woods and wild turkeys searching for acorns on the forest floor. Up in the trees, you will see bright red cardinals, large pileated woodpeckers, and even bald eagles soaring near water sources. Quiet predators like bobcats and gray foxes also call Shawnee home, though they prefer to stay hidden from human eyes. Interestingly, nine-banded armadillos have also moved into the area in recent years as they expand their range north.

Reporter: Are there any specific areas in the forest that are famous for wildlife watching?

Ranger Davis: Absolutely! One of our most famous spots is an area called LaRue-Pine Hills, particularly a stretch known as "Snake Road." Every spring and autumn, forest officials close this two-mile road to cars. Thousands of snakes, frogs, toads, and salamanders migrate across the gravel road. They move between the limestone cliffs, where they hibernate in winter, and the swamp wetlands, where they spend the summer. It is one of the few places in North America where a road is closed specifically to protect migrating reptiles and amphibians.

Reporter: Closing a road for migrating animals is amazing! How do these creatures help the overall ecosystem of the forest?

Ranger Davis: Every animal has an important job. Amphibians like frogs and salamanders eat massive amounts of insects, which keeps bug populations under control. Predators like red-tailed hawks and snakes eat small rodents like mice, preventing those populations from growing too large. Meanwhile, seed-eating birds and squirrels help plant new trees by dropping or burying seeds across the woods. If even one animal species disappears, it affects the whole food web.

Reporter: What advice do you have for students visiting Shawnee National Forest who want to observe animals safely?

Ranger Davis: The most important rule is to observe wildlife from a respectful distance. Use binoculars or a camera zoom instead of walking closer. Always stay on designated trails to avoid stepping on hidden nests or disturbing fragile plants. Never offer food to wild animals because human food can make them sick. Remember the golden rule of nature lovers: take only pictures, and leave only footprints!