Wildlife of Missouri facts for kids

Missouri River near Rocheport, Missouri

Missouri is home to a diversity of both flora and fauna. There is a large amount of fresh water present due to the Mississippi River, Missouri River, and Lake of the Ozarks, with numerous smaller tributary rivers, streams, and lakes. North of the Missouri River, the state is primarily rolling hills of the Great Plains, whereas south of the Missouri River, the state is dominated by the Oak-Hickory Central U.S. hardwood forest.

Some of the native species found in Missouri include:

Mammals

Within historic times, pronghorn, gray wolf, and brown bear were all found in Missouri, but have since been eliminated. Wapiti and American bison were formerly common, but are currently confined to private farms and parks.

Birds

Year-round:

Summer/breeders:

Winter residents:

Within historic times, the passenger pigeon, the carolina parakeet, and the ivory-billed woodpecker were all found in Missouri, but they have since been eliminated.

Reptiles and amphibians

Reptiles:

Amphibians:

Fish

Mollusks

Trees and shrubs

The trees and shrubs growing in Missouri include the following:

Insect migrations

There has also been a migration of insects from the south to Missouri. One example of this is the wasp Polistes exclamans.

Category

• List of mammals of Missouri
• List of birds of Missouri
• Fauna of the United States