There are many cliffs and bluffs in Southeast Missouri.

Most, if not all, of them are limestone rock formations susceptible to internal cavity erosion.

Cavities that lead to the light of day provide shelter for a large variety of wild animals and insects.

I followed a well-worn animal trail a short distance up this cliff, where it ended at the mouth of a den.

Bare worn dirt at the left of the largest hole in the image is evidence of animal activity and proof it is an active den. I could not positively identify any of the blended tracks in the dust at the entrance but did find raccoon evidence nearby.

It would have taken more time than I had to spend on this day to hide and discover what kinds of animals might be finding protection inside.

Some animals that frequent cliff dens in Southeast Missouri include raccoons, bobcats, foxes, snakes, bats, swallows, skunks and deer mice.

And maybe, just maybe, a rare Missouri black bear might be sleeping inside!