Missouri’s diverse landscapes provide a home for a wide variety of wild animals. The state’s forests, prairies, wetlands, rivers, and extensive cave systems create numerous habitats that support a rich array of species. Missouri is home to over 6,000 caves, ranking it as one of the states with the most caves in the United States, offering unique underground ecosystems.
Mammals of Missouri
White-tailed deer are widespread, often seen in various habitats from forests to suburban areas. Raccoons, opossums, and several squirrel species are commonly encountered across the state.
Larger mammals, such as black bears, are found in Missouri, particularly within the forested Ozarks. These omnivores primarily consume plant material. Efforts have reintroduced elk and American bison into specific areas, such as Prairie State Park, after their historical extirpation from the state.
Missouri hosts about 17 native bat species. Some, like the big brown bat and eastern red bat, are frequently encountered. Many bat species utilize the state’s numerous caves for roosting and hibernation.
Other notable mammals include coyotes, which are adaptable canines found throughout Missouri. Red and gray foxes are present, with gray foxes having the unusual ability to climb trees. American badgers, known for their powerful digging claws, primarily hunt small burrowing mammals.
Birds of Missouri
Missouri’s position along migratory routes contributes to its rich avian diversity, with over 415 bird species recorded. Common backyard birds include the Northern Cardinal, American Robin, and Blue Jay, which are often seen year-round. Downy Woodpeckers and Red-bellied Woodpeckers are frequent visitors to feeders.
Migratory waterfowl, such as ducks and geese, utilize Missouri’s wetlands during their seasonal journeys. The Mississippi Flyway, a major migratory corridor, sees tens of thousands of birds pass through Missouri annually. Raptors like various hawk and owl species inhabit the state’s diverse landscapes.
Game birds are popular in Missouri, with species such as wild turkeys and bobwhite quail found across different habitats. The bobwhite quail, Missouri’s official game bird, has seen successful repopulation efforts. Pheasants are present, particularly in northern Missouri.
Reptiles and Amphibians of Missouri
The state has numerous snake species, with most being non-venomous. Common non-venomous snakes include the Western Ratsnake, Speckled Kingsnake, and various garter snakes. Kingsnakes are known for their ability to prey on other snakes, including venomous ones.
Five species of venomous snakes are found in Missouri, all belonging to the pit viper family. These include the Eastern Copperhead, the most widespread, and the Timber Rattlesnake, the largest venomous snake in the state. Other venomous species are the Western Cottonmouth, Western Pygmy Rattlesnake, and Massasauga Rattlesnake.
Eleven species of lizards inhabit Missouri, typically found in forests, meadows, and prairies. Most are skinks, such as the Common Five-lined Skink, prevalent throughout much of the state. Other lizards include the Six-lined Racerunner, known for its speed, and the Eastern Collared Lizard, often found in rocky glades.
Missouri’s amphibian population includes 26 species of frogs and toads. The American Bullfrog is the largest frog in the state, often found near large bodies of water. Other common frogs include Green Frogs and various chorus frogs. Toads like the American Toad and Fowler’s Toad are widespread.
Nineteen species of salamanders are native to Missouri, mostly found in the Ozark Highlands and bottomland forests. These amphibians require moist environments or freshwater for survival and reproduction. Notable species include the Spotted Salamander, which breeds in temporary pools, and the Hellbender, a large aquatic salamander.
Fish and Aquatic Inhabitants
Missouri’s extensive river systems, lakes, and streams support a diverse array of fish and aquatic life. The Missouri River alone is home to over 200 fish species. Popular game fish include several bass species, such as largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass, sought after in various waters, including the Ozarks.
Catfish, including blue, channel, and flathead varieties, are abundant in Missouri’s rivers and lakes, with some reaching considerable sizes. Crappie, both white and black, are prevalent and popular among anglers. Trout, specifically rainbow and brown trout, are present, particularly in stocked areas.
Longnose gar can be found in larger rivers and lakes, often floating near the surface. Various species of mussels and crayfish reside in Missouri’s aquatic environments, contributing to the health of these freshwater systems.