What animals did Lewis and Clark discover on their journey? The Corps of Discovery, led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, embarked on an epic journey across the uncharted American West in 1804. This expedition, which lasted until 1806, was not only a quest for scientific knowledge and geographical exploration but also a chance to document the wildlife they encountered. Their observations of various animals would contribute significantly to the understanding of the region’s fauna.
The journey began in St. Louis, Missouri, and ended in Oregon Country, covering a vast territory that included present-day states such as Montana, Idaho, and Oregon. Throughout their travels, Lewis and Clark documented numerous species of animals, some of which were new to science at the time. Here are some of the notable animals they discovered:
1. Grizzly Bears
One of the most iconic animals encountered by Lewis and Clark was the grizzly bear. These formidable creatures were a constant threat to the expedition members, and their encounters with bears were often dangerous. However, the Corps of Discovery also managed to observe the bears in their natural habitat, providing valuable insights into their behavior and habits.
2. Pronghorns
The pronghorn, also known as the antelope, was another animal that captured the interest of Lewis and Clark. They were fascinated by the speed and agility of these animals, which they described as “a most beautiful animal.” The pronghorn remains one of the fastest land mammals in North America, capable of reaching speeds of up to 55 miles per hour.
3. Mountain Goats
Mountain goats were a rare sight for the Corps of Discovery, as they were primarily found in the rugged terrain of the Rocky Mountains. Lewis and Clark were amazed by the goats’ ability to navigate the steep, rocky slopes with ease, describing them as “a very agile animal.”
4. Salmon
The Columbia River, which the expedition followed for much of their journey, was teeming with salmon. Lewis and Clark were intrigued by the fish’s migration patterns and the importance of salmon to the Native American tribes they encountered. They also noted the abundance of beavers, which they believed were responsible for the creation of the river’s numerous dams.
5. Mammals and Birds
In addition to the larger animals, Lewis and Clark documented numerous smaller mammals and birds. They described various species, including squirrels, rabbits, beavers, and a wide variety of birds. Their detailed observations helped to expand the scientific knowledge of the region’s fauna.
The journey of Lewis and Clark was not only a testament to their courage and determination but also a significant contribution to the scientific understanding of the American West. The animals they discovered and documented would continue to shape the region’s wildlife and conservation efforts for generations to come.
