They made the first discoveries involving the Missouri river, not only the course that it took but the inhabitants within and around it. They measure the depth and current of the river, as well as discovering tributaries that branch from it. As the Corp began to move up through the Missouri River, the conditions weren't as harsh, Lewis became focused on being more detailed with his discoveries. .
Not only did Lewis journal what he saw but he drew pictures and recorded the actions of unknown specimens that he discovered. He recorded hunting styles that were useful against big game like buffalo and grizzly bears, as well as what animals were predatory and which were prey. The Corp hunted and fished for rations as well, and this was the reason for many of their discoveries in the uncharted West. They discovered a mass number of 120 mammals, including birds and fish. The grizzly bear was considered the kind of the western plains; they encountered them many times and were tough to kill. Another animal that was discovered in the Badlands were large chirping vermin, they named these prairie dogs. .
Vegetation and Climate.
Lewis and Clark took diligent notes and drew pictures of not only the wild mammals that roamed the territory, but the plant life as well. Lewis thought that this would provide much new knowledge for the world's food crop supply, as well as the discovery of plants that can be used for other benefits to humanity such as medicine. President Jefferson insisted that the Corp also record the productivity of seasonal vegetation, as well as the soil. Many vegetables that were not known already were discovered, the American Indians were very helpful in sharing information of their harvests. The American Indians helped Lewis and Clark discover hundreds of plants specimens and ascertain their habitats, growth needs, and uses. Together the Corp discovered eighty new plant species to science, including flowers, grasses, and edible crops.