How to Bird Watch in Missouri

Birders have identified nearly 400 bird species in Missouri, making it a leading bird-watching state in the Midwest. Bird watching in Missouri will provide hours of enjoyment for the casual birder. Of course, there are quite a few bird-watching hot spots across Missouri, but it does take time, patience and a little know-how in order to spot these feathered finds. Read on and the best ways to spot all sorts of birds in Missouri.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Bird watching guide
• A spotting scope or binoculars
• Sunscreen
• Water
• Notebook

1. Begin bird watching in Missouri at the Mingo National Wildlife Refuge and Duck Creek Conservation Areas. These two areas are home to the greatest diversity of birds in the state. The land of the combined refuge and conservation area supports over 100 species during the annual spring migration. The areas are located just northeast of Polar Bluff, Missouri.
2. Take the time to visit the monumental 65,000-acre Ozark National Scenic Riverways and find some exceptional woodland and riparian bird watching. This area is the first national park to protect a wild river system; the Riverways protects the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers as they flow through some rugged scenic areas. Summering birds include Green Herons, Louisiana Waterthrushes and Northern Parulas.
3. Travel to southwestern Missouri to the incredible 12,314-acre Hercules Glades Wilderness, east of Forsythe. As part of the Mark Twain National Forest, this roadless wilderness offers footpaths for the hearty birders who want to venture out in search of such species as Prairie Warblers, Greater Roadrunners and Painted Buntings.
4. Explore a lesser known birding hot spot at the Ted Shanks Conservation Area. The area has broad marshlands and bottomland forests. Waterfowl and egrets are found during the spring and fall. Head off into the forests for great opportunities to see Wood Ducks and Prothonotary Warblers. The area is spread out along nearly seven miles of the Mississippi River south of Hannibal.
5. Print out maps, guides and checklists before heading out for a day of bird watching (see Resources below).