Missouri is home to thousands of kinds of animals without backbones that live in the water. Learn about our crayfish, clams, snails, leeches and aquatic insects.
You know them as frogs, toads, snakes, turtles, and lizards. Get acquainted with all of Missouri's fascinating herptiles, including 43 amphibians and 75 species and subspecies of reptiles.
More than 390 bird species are known to occur in Missouri. Learn what sets birds apart from other groups of animals.
Learn about Missouri's beautiful and important butterflies and moths.
More than 200 kinds of fish occur in Missouri. Learn how Missouri's different kinds of fish are adapted to different kinds of habitat.
These animals (along with crabs, shrimp, crayfish and others) are arthropods — invertebrates with jointed legs. Learn about Missouri's most common arthropods here.
Nearly 70 species of wild mammals live in Missouri. Use this page to get acquainted with the mammals you're most likely to see in your neighborhood or at a conservation area.
Follow these guidelines to Be Bear Aware – stay safe in bear country, and keep our bears wild.
Wild animals don't make good pets, and it is illegal to possess many wild animals without a valid state or federal permit. If you encounter young wildlife, leave it where you find it.
