Conservation and Wildlife Policies
Camp Robert Drake, Prairielands Council
Jacob Henry, Ecology Director
Mike Graham, Camp Director
John Marquardt, Program Director
Jack Stiverson, Camping Committee Chair
2012
“Our moral and ethical responsibility is to protect other species in the spirit of husbandry rather than destroy
them in an attitude of conquest.” –Charles Southwick, primatology educator and conservationist
Table of Contents
Opening Notes and General Safety
Mammals
Bats
Coyotes
Deer
Raccoons
Rodents
Skunks
Assorted Other Mammals
3
4
Reptiles and Amphibians
Snakes
Turtles
General Commentary on Amphibians
7
Birds
8
Turkeys
Policy on Baby Birds
Camp Commitment to Birds
Invertebrates
Bees and Wasps
Mosquitoes
Spiders
Ticks and Chiggers
9
Plants
11
Poison Ivy
Stinging Nettle
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Camp Drake’s Commitment to the Environment
1. All species have an intrinsic right to exist. Camp Drake will do all in its power to
preserve the biodiversity of its ecosystems.
2. Camp Drake will act responsibly to preserve the face of the Earth, minding soil and
water conservation when building or expanding.
3. Camp Drake will maintain its trails and Ecology Center for environmental education
and experiences.
4. Camp Drake endorses green technology, recycling, and other efforts of sustainability.
Opening Notes and General Safety
Welcome to Camp Robert Drake. Here, Scouts have the opportunity to observe birds, fish,
insects, and other wildlife. Throughout camp you will see numerous animals, especially
squirrels, chipmunks, toads, and songbirds. Undoubtedly the chance to observe a raccoon,
turkey, deer, eagle, or salamander will provide lifelong memories.
We however, cannot forget that in our tenure as campers we also serve as stewards
of the environment. Camp Drake is committed to preserving its 410 acres of forest and river
ecosystems. Part of this commitment is to ensure that the wildlife remains undisturbed.
In this guide, we will outline the plants and animals of Camp Drake. Please take note
that all animals should be considered dangerous and all plants should be considered
poisonous. The following is a list of general practice rules for camp wildlife:
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Give the animals space. A trapped animal is the most dangerous.
If one is hurt by an animal or plant consult the First Aider immediately.
Do not take young animals out of their habitat.
Report any sick and injured animals to the Ecology Director. Do not
approach them yourself.
Do not handle carcasses and scat.
Keep the food in your campsite secure. Do not leave food in your tent.
Raccoons will not mind breaking and entering.
Don’t annoy the animals i.e. don’t follow, chase, throw things at them.
Do not act aggressively toward animals
Stay on the trails.
Wash your hands after handling any (even a tame) animal.
With more questions inquire with the Ecology Director
We, at Camp Drake, want all Scouts and leaders to have a safe and enjoyable outdoor natural
experience. By following these simple rules, you and others, will be able to enjoy the diverse
biology that Camp Drake offers.
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MAMMALS
Illinois Symbols
White-Tailed Deer-State Animal
Found at Drake
Bats
Danger: Low; bats do not intentionally attack. As
long as you just look; they are harmless.
Chance of Encounter: High; many bats live near main camp.
Scouts can view bats in the early morning around the
Friendship Circle.
Description: Bats are keystone species in the environment.
However, they can carry rabies, a dangerous disease. You
should never handle a bat. If it is on the ground, out in the
daytime, or seems sick it probably is an infected individual. You
cannot contract rabies from droppings, only from a bite. Bats
scare people and therefore some people try to eliminate the species. Four of the five
endangered mammals in Illinois are bats. Bats are actually very useful species and therefore
Camp Drake treats its bats with respect.
Management Policy: All suspicious bats should be reported to the Ecology Director or
Camp Commissioner immediately. Any direct contact (Do Not Touch Bats!) should be
reported to the First Aider.
Coyotes
Danger: Medium; while coyotes can be very dangerous they typically run away.
Chance of Encounter: Medium; there are many coyotes in Camp Drake and on the
surrounding farmland but they avoid people. Many campers hear their howl but never see
the animal.
Description: Coyotes are Illinois’s version of wolves, the top
predator. They have a vicious appearance but a temperate attitude.
They avoid people but sometimes will use their incredible sense of
smell to find food in campsites. These are not your pet dog, do not
encourage coyotes. Coyotes are smart and can be extremely
dangerous if hungry or trapped.
Management Policy: While the camp does not encourage the
presence of coyotes, we can do very little to stop their natural
wandering. If coyotes are in your campsite do not confront them.
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Deer
Danger: Low; Deer are extremely mellow
Chance of Encounter: High; most campers see a deer at some point while hiking or just
taking a class in the woods.
Description: White-Tailed Deer are overly common in Illinois forests.
Many deer can be found in and around Camp Drake. The fawns are
normally old enough to walk by the camping season and the does give
them more free reign. Deer only become dangerous to people when the
seemly alone fawns are threatened.
Management Policy: Camp Drake has affectionately adopted the deer
as its unofficial symbol. Campers should not bother the deer.
Raccoons
Danger: Medium; while they are normally passive they have the capabilities
to maul a person.
Chance of Encounter: High; Camp Drake is home to hundreds of
raccoons that take advantage of unaware Scouts’ food.
Description: Raccoons are crafty, thumbed, scavengers that are not to be
challenged. Raccoons have a low fear of people and will not hesitate to
enter a tent if they smell food. They may look cute but raccoons can grow
to large sizes and be dangerous if rabid, angry, or hungry.
Management Policy: The camp tries to manage the raccoons but we rely
on the campers to lock their food and not venture to the dumpster late at night. It is highly
likely that raccoons would invade any camping area in or out of Camp Drake, brace yourself.
Rodents
Danger: Low; while rodents can carry Hantavirus (spread through feces and urine) they are
mostly unnoticed. Don’t try to catch them, they will bite.
Chance of Encounter: High; there are many rodents including moles, voles, and mice in
Camp Drake.
Description: Rodents are the bottom of the mammal kingdom. Many people despise and
even fear mice and rats. This isn’t an entirely frivolous fear
however, rodents support the fleas that were responsible for
(and still carry) the plague.
Management Policy: Camp Drake tries to manage the mole
populations on the Plateau, watch your step. Moles and
rabbits should not be handled, especially if dead or dying.
Leave dying animals in peace and notify the Ecology
Director. Report all infestations to the Camp Director.
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Skunks
Danger: Medium
Chance of Encounter: Medium; they are normally spotted on
the South end of camp, near the range.
Description: Skunks are about the same size as a house cat.
They are black with white stripes and have a very distinct odor.
Due to this smell skunks are not hunted by normal predators.
Only the Great Horned Owl, because it lacks the ability to
sniff, will attach skunks.
Management Policy: This animal is the epitome of the phrase
“back away slowly”. Skunks do not always choose to spray their
foul scent but when they do it can be compared to a Scout not showering for days.
Other Featured Mammals
Badgers:
Danger: Medium
Chance of Encounter: Low
Management Policy: The sighting of a badger, while interesting, is not
crucial information. If a person is attacked by a badger seek first aid
immediately.
Foxes:
Danger: Low
Chance of Encounter: Low
Management Policy: Foxes are illusive. Scouts should remember that they
are not domestic dogs and should not be approached. Do not feed or
encourage them, just enjoy their presence.
Domestic Dogs:
Danger: Medium
Chance of Encounter: Medium
Management Policy: Occasionally a stray pet dog will arrive at camp. Scouts
should not touch, feed, or handle these dogs, even if the animal has a leash. Please
notify the camp administration about the dog so the appropriate authorities can
be contacted.
Chipmunks:
Danger: Low
Chance of Encounter: High
Management Policy: Even though they look cute when they stuff their cheeks,
chipmunks are just as dangerous as any other rodent. Many of these rodents live
near the Training Center. Do not attempt to catch a chipmunk.
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Squirrels:
Danger: Low
Chance of Encounter: High
Management Policy: Our squirrels are probably less tame than the typical
feeder visitor. They will avoid you. Remember, if a squirrel (or any other
mammal) does not seem to fear you, it could be rapid.
REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS
Illinois Symbols
Tiger Salamander-State Amphibian
Painted Turtle- State Reptile
Found at Drake
Venomous Snakes
Danger: High
Chance of Encounter: Low
Description: Camp Drake is in range of three venomous snakes; 1) Eastern Massasauga 2)
Timber Rattlesnake 3) Cottonmouth Water Moccasin. The timber rattlesnake lives under
brush and logs. The others live in or near rivers and ponds. Snakes wish to avoid contact
with you. Most bites are encouraged by the human. Other bites are the result of hikers
carelessly placing their feet. Snakes don’t appreciate being stepped on. To avoid snake bites
wear close-toed shoes and long pants. Do not disturb the under story and rotting logs.
Venomous snakes can be identified by their diamond shaped head and cat-like pupils. Treat
all snakes as venomous. If you are bit seek first aid. Do not waste energy trying to catch or
kill the snake.
Non-Venomous Snakes
Danger: Low
Chance of Encounter: High
Description: Non-venomous snakes are abundant and the interest of many Ecology
students at Camp Drake. It is likely that a Scout may find a small Brown Snake, Garter
Snake, or Black Rat Snake in the woods or near main camp. While these snakes aren’t
particularly dangerous they should not be bothered. Handling disturbs the animal and can
leave an unpleasant musk scent on your hand. Black Rat Snakes (up to 101 inches) can be
very powerful and will strike to draw blood if handled.
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Management Policy for All Snakes: Don’t handle them.
The presence of large snakes should be reported to the
Ecology Director.
Turtles
Danger: Low
Chance of Encounter: Medium
Description: While turtles may look tough, they are especially susceptible to human harm.
Many varieties (including painted and false map) of turtles can be found at camp. They are
easily startled and can escape from Scouts when in the water. However, on land, turtles,
especially young turtles, are easily caught and picked up. Camp’s turtles range in size from
giant snappers to baby sliders. Obviously a bigger turtle has a more powerful bite. In
addition to the danger from its beak; turtles (and all other reptiles) can carry salmonellosis.
Wash your hands frequently.
Management Policy: Baby turtles in main camp or
campsites should be reported to the Ecology staff. If a
Scout has already handled the small turtle it is tolerable
for them to take the specimen to the Ecology Center.
Large turtles should be avoided. Notify the Ecology staff
of large turtles in camp. Do not attempt to handle them.
If a turtle is in the river or the pond, leave it be.
Commentary on Amphibians
Many amphibians are facing shrinking populations. Camp Drake and
other areas of protected river woodlands are sanctuaries for these
susceptible creatures. Some salamander, frog, and toad species are listed
as endangered or threatened and many other species are near the tipping
point due to habitat fragmentation and pollution. Be respectful to all
amphibians, especially the numerous toads, and remember that all species
have an intrinsic right to exist. If people continue to pollute, many amphibians, including
Hikin’ Mike’s Gilded Newt (Salamandridae hiki miki), may go extinct.
BIRDS
Illinois Symbols
Northern Cardinal -State Bird
Found at Drake
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Turkeys
Danger: Low
Chance of Encounter: Medium
Description: This is one of the few birds that Camp Drake
hosts that is not commonly seen in the wild. Turkeys freely
roam our wooded habitat and very often have chicks.
Turkeys are no danger unless they feel threatened.
Management Policy: Turkeys will chase whatever startles
them. If one sees a turkey, simply leave it alone and it will
pass peacefully. If you bother a mother turkey you will
regret your last Thanksgiving dinner. They can be quite
vicious with payback.
Baby Bird Policy
Occasionally baby birds will fall out of their nest. If the nest can be located
and is easily accessible, put the bird back. If the next cannot be found or is
inaccessible put the bird in the woods out of the way of main traffic. Always
wash your hands after handling any animal.
*Note: The stories about birds smelling human scent on their babies is nonsense.
Camp Drake Commitment to Birds
Birds can be described as the barometers of an ecosystem. They are crucial indicator species
that are one of the first to fall if a habitat becomes disturbed. Camp Drake is
committed to preserving all the bird species in our forests, waterways, and
flatlands. Some endangered species that can be viewed at Camp Drake are the
Northern Harrier, Little Blue Heron, and Loggerhead Shrike. Bald Eagles
have even been sighted near the Salt Fork.
INVERTEBRATES
Illinois Symbols
Monarch Butterfly-State Insect
Found at Drake
Bees and Wasps
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Bees and wasps are important pollinators and crucial to the success of an
ecosystem. Many stinging insects are very passive and only sting when
necessary. Use common sense and do not swat at these animals. If stung, use
a knife to scrape away the stinger. Report to the First Aider immediately.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes seem to be the nemesis of every camper. These pesky bugs can
do more than cause an itch. Mosquitoes can carry West Nile Virus as well as
Malaria. Wear long sleeves and bug spray with DEET to reduce the chance
of being bitten. If mosquito larvas are growing in camp please eliminate them
and make the Camp Director aware of the problem location.
*Fun Fact: Only the female mosquitoes suck our blood.
Spiders
The Brown Recluse is a solitary spider that does not use webs. They are
extremely reclusive and rarely bite people unless caught between clothing and
skin. Recluse bites are painful and can cause disfiguration. These spiders can
be identified by the violin shaped mark on its cephalothorax. They are
relatively small (not much bigger than a quarter with its legs spread) and not
hairy.
The Black Widow Spider is more venomous and smaller than its reclusive
cousin. The females normally have a red hourglass shape located on their
abdomen. Widows are traditional web-weaving spiders that could possibly
live in your tent (versus the recluse with prefers solid structure).
The Wolf Spider is less venomous but more aggressive than the other two spiders. These
monster spiders rely on camouflage to hide their large bodies. They will deliver a painful bite
if provoked. Wolf Spiders can commonly be found in tents. While they do help keep the
insect population down, many Scouts will be terrified of these large intimidating spiders.
Ticks and Chiggers
Ticks are insects that bury their head in your flesh. They live in forest and
tallgrass habitats. Ticks can carry very unpleasant diseases and should be
removed from your body as soon as possible. Use tweezers to remove the tick.
Make sure that the mouth parts are not lodged in your skin after you pull the
body out. If a tick has been in your skin for more that 48 hours, see the First
Aider. Wear long clothing and DEET to avoid ticks. They like to hide under
hair. Check yourself for ticks after all hikes.
Chiggers are a type of mite that lives in almost all habitats (but seems most prevalent in
tallgrass). Chiggers feed on skin cells of their host forming small holes in the skin causing
itchy hives or a rash. Report chigger bites to the First Aider.
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Illinois Symbols
PLANTS
White Oak-State Tree
Found at Drake
Violet- State Flower
Found at Drake
Big Bluestem- State Prairie Grass
Poison Ivy
This plant is the most famous example of photosynthetic
danger. The oils that are transferred by contact normally cause
human skin to become irritated and itchy. Poison Ivy oils can
remain on a surface such, as clothing, tools or tents, for up to a
year. It grows in vine, creeper, and solitary plant form. Never
burn this plant; this will result in severe rash. Even those who
claim to be immune can still experience a
reaction. Be wary of the leaves of three.
Stinging Nettle
Unlike Poison Ivy that can be painful and itchy for days, Nettle affects
one for a shorter time but more intensely. Nettle’s small hairs act like
needles to release a poison into the skin that came in contact with the
plant. This plant is abundant in Camp Drake. Simple anti-itch medicine
can be used to sooth the bumps and rash.
Commentary On Plants
A large percentage of the species on the
endangered list are plants. Please help do your part to
preserve the plants by staying on the designated
trails. This small action can help our ecosystems to
thrive relatively undisturbed.
Never eat a wild plant or fruit. Many plants are
somewhat poisonous. They range in severeness from
death to bowel problems.
* Never touch or eat fungi.
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Ecology Center
Camp Robert Drake Ecology Center is
committed to
providing environmental education.
From cutting edge teaching methods
and creative lessons scouts will learn to
appreciate and appropriately use the
world around them. By educating scouts
in a variety of wildlife and conservation
sciences we hope to improve future
generation’s practices of sustainability.
Take one or more badges (including
Eagle required Environmental Science)
at the Ecology Center and you will not only learn but have fun too!
If you find animals in camp, many times you are supposed to report to the Ecology Director.
The animal you find might become part of our small collection of living specimens and you
could be recognized as a spotter!
In addition to teaching, the Eco staff writes policy books, green initiatives, and conservation
lists for camp. This publication is authored by Camp Drake Ecology staff.
Reduce~Reuse~Recycle
Sources and Acknowledgments
Collins, Henry Hill. Complete Field Guide to American Wildlife. East, Central, and North Ed.
New York: Harper Brothers, 1959. Print.
Illinois DNR. Checklist of Endangered and Threatened Animals and Plants of Illinois, 2011
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“In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.”—John Muir, naturalist and founder of The
Sierra Club.
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