LOOK: Rare Animals You May Hardly See in Oklahoma

Some of these animals were around while many of us were growing up, but over the years have faced endangerment and lowering numbers. Oklahoma actually is home to one endangered species that is only endangered to the rest of the U.S. Have you noticed these critters making less and less appearances?

Horny Toads

Known officially as the Texas Horned Lizard, or by its scientific name "Phrynosoma," horny toads used to be common in Oklahoma. However, a specific type of ant that has invaded Oklahoma's plains actually competes with Oklahoma's native ant species - also the main source of the horny toads' diet.

The loss of proper diet combined with the ever-growing commercializing of natural lands in the state have driven Horny Toads to "greatest conservation" in Oklahoma, according to biologist Cheyenne Gonzales. Meaning, they aren't endangered or extinct, but have a closed season in Oklahoma and prevent "capture, possession or harvest."

Turkey

Although hunting season is usually a popular time of year in previous years, things are starting to die down in Oklahoma due to the sharp decline in wild turkey populations. More research is being conducted to find out why the decline is happening, but for now, things may not be as successful for Thanksgiving this year.

Northern Long-Eared Bats

If you've been caving in Oklahoma over the years, chances are you've ran into one of these little boogers at some point or another. At one time, they were one of the most common and widespread species, according to the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. However, over the years, they have started to face an issue threatening their numbers.

"White-nose syndrome, a disease that affects hibernating bats, has caused population declines in portions of the northern long-eared bat range. Although the Oklahoma portion of its range has not experienced these declines, it remains unknown as to how the spread of the disease will ultimately affect the overall recovery of the species."

-Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation

Efforts to maintain the populations we have now have already been implemented, including cave protection. So, even if the bats may be okay for now, we can make sure their numbers last and grow for the rest of the states.