As Independence Day approaches, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites residents to explore the great outdoors and celebrate the holiday by discovering nature’s own display of red, white, and blue.
MDC suggests outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, and fishing as perfect ways to spot vibrant seasonal wildlife and plants that fit the patriotic theme. Among the highlights to look for:
- Red: Royal catchfly flowers and male summer tanagers
- White: Beard-tongues (foxgloves) and great egrets
- Blue: False indigos and male indigo buntings
For those seeking more information about Missouri’s native species and where to find them, MDC’s online Field Guide at mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide is a useful tool.
Looking for ideas to get outdoors? MDC offers a wide range of suggestions—from cycling and floating to outdoor cooking and wildlife watching—available at mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/activities. For places to go, explore MDC’s location guide or download the MO Outdoors app, free for both Apple and Android devices.
For more MDC news and tips, visit their newsroom or follow the department on social media.
This holiday, MDC encourages everyone to enjoy the beauty of Missouri’s wild spaces—and discover the patriotic colors blooming right outside your door.
