Missouri’s location at the convergence of the Great Plains, the Ozark Mountains, and two major river systems creates a rich and varied landscape. This unique geography, encompassing forests, native prairies, and extensive river networks, supports a wide array of wildlife. The state is home to a diverse biological community, ranging from common backyard visitors to rare, cave-dwelling specialists. Understanding these species provides both safety awareness and a deeper appreciation for the animals that call the “Show-Me State” home.
The Most Commonly Encountered Mammals
The white-tailed deer is the most prevalent large mammal in Missouri, with the population estimated at over 1.4 million animals. These highly adaptable herbivores thrive across the state, inhabiting forests, agricultural fields, and suburban green spaces. Their wide distribution makes them the most frequently sighted big game species. The coyote is the top canine predator, found throughout Missouri, often preying on smaller mammals and fawns.
Smaller, highly adaptable mammals are common sights, including the raccoon and the opossum. Raccoons are known for their intelligence, thriving well in urban environments where food sources are plentiful. The Virginia opossum, North America’s only marsupial, is widespread and often seen at night due to its nocturnal habits.
The American black bear is a larger species making a notable comeback, primarily confined to the heavily forested Ozark region. While the population is growing, most sightings occur south of Interstate 44. These omnivores are generally reclusive, foraging for berries, nuts, and insects.
Notable Avian Species
Missouri’s skies are diverse, featuring the Eastern Bluebird, the official state bird since 1927. This small songbird is a common resident in open woodlands and farmlands. The Wild Turkey is a popular game species whose population has rebounded significantly through conservation efforts, now numbering in the hundreds of thousands. Despite their wide range, recent population indices suggest a decline, prompting ongoing management research.
The state’s large rivers and reservoirs make it a critical wintering destination for the Bald Eagle. Thousands of these raptors migrate south annually to hunt near open water; 1,200 to 2,700 eagles are counted during the winter season. Missouri’s position underneath the Mississippi Flyway also makes it a vital stopover point for migrating waterfowl. Ducks, geese, and other species use the state’s wetlands and river systems to rest and refuel during their journeys.
Reptiles, Amphibians, and Public Safety
Missouri is home to a variety of reptiles and amphibians, including four species of venomous snakes that warrant awareness. The most commonly encountered is the Eastern Copperhead, identifiable by its hourglass-shaped crossbands and found across nearly the entire state. The Western Cottonmouth, or water moccasin, is primarily restricted to the swamps and lowlands of the southeastern Bootheel region. This aquatic pit viper displays a distinctive white lining inside its mouth when threatened.
Two types of rattlesnakes are present, including the Timber Rattlesnake, a large species found in forested areas and rocky bluffs throughout the Ozarks. Though its venom is potent, this species is generally docile and provides a clear warning with its tail rattle before striking. The smaller Western Massasauga is much rarer, found sparsely in marshy habitats in the northern and western parts of Missouri. Non-venomous snakes are far more common, including the Bullsnake, which shakes its tail to mimic a rattle, and Kingsnakes, which are immune to the venom of pit vipers.
Unique Inhabitants of Missouri’s Waterways and Caves
The state’s extensive river systems and unique karst geology host several specialized and ancient species. The Paddlefish, Missouri’s official state aquatic animal, is a massive filter-feeder characterized by its long, paddle-like snout. It uses this snout for electro-reception to locate plankton and can grow to over five feet long. The Paddlefish is a resident of the Mississippi, Missouri, and Osage rivers.
The Hellbender, a large, entirely aquatic salamander, inhabits the state’s clear, cool Ozark streams. Missouri is the only state where both the Eastern and Ozark Hellbender subspecies are found. Both subspecies are currently endangered and serve as indicators of pristine water quality.
Within the state’s thousands of caves, specialized life forms known as troglobites have adapted to total darkness. Examples include the Grotto Salamander and the blind Ozark Cavefish. These species have lost their eyes and skin pigment, relying instead on heightened senses of touch and chemical detection to navigate their subterranean world.