Mammals:
* Large Mammals: White-tailed deer, elk (reintroduced), black bear, coyote, bobcat, river otter, beaver, and wild turkey.
* Smaller Mammals: Squirrel, rabbit, raccoon, opossum, skunk, fox, bat, and numerous rodent species.
Birds:
* Birds of Prey: Bald eagle, golden eagle, red-tailed hawk, Cooper's hawk, great horned owl, and barred owl.
* Songbirds: Cardinal, blue jay, chickadee, woodpecker, warbler, and many more.
* Waterfowl: Duck, goose, heron, egret, and other waterbirds.
Reptiles and Amphibians:
* Reptiles: Snapping turtle, painted turtle, box turtle, copperhead snake, timber rattlesnake, and various lizard species.
* Amphibians: Bullfrog, green frog, American toad, salamander, and newt.
Fish:
* Game Fish: Bass, catfish, crappie, trout, walleye, and muskie.
* Other Fish: Sunfish, carp, and numerous other species.
Insects:
* Butterflies: Monarch, swallowtail, and many other species.
* Bees and Wasps: Honeybee, bumblebee, and various wasp species.
* Other Insects: Grasshoppers, crickets, beetles, and ants.
Other Wildlife:
* Snakes: Garter snake, rat snake, and various non-venomous species.
* Invertebrates: Spiders, earthworms, snails, and other invertebrates.
Where to See Wildlife:
* State Parks: Missouri has over 100 state parks, offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
* National Forests: Mark Twain National Forest and Ozark National Forest provide vast areas for wildlife observation.
* Wildlife Refuges: Several refuges, such as Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge, are dedicated to protecting specific species.
* Conservation Areas: Missouri Department of Conservation manages numerous conservation areas with diverse wildlife.
Remember to be respectful of wildlife and follow any guidelines provided by the areas you visit. Enjoy your explorations!