Missouri Department of Conservation

Caves and Karst

Missouri has more than 6,300 caves that support over 900 species of animals. These caves are formed by water seeping through the limestone and dolomite bedrock that underlies much of Missouri.

Cave-dependent species have always been rare because their habitat is limited. Protecting the fragile balance of cave environments is critical to the survival of these communities.

A Guide to Missouri's Cave Life

Get to know the seventy cave species brought to light in this 40-page booklet.

Cave Classification and Management

How does Missouri Department of Conservation manage its caves?

Missouri Caves, Karst and Springs

Learn the basics about karst topography. Definitions provided for spring, cave, sinkhole, losing stream, natural bridge or tunnel and rock shelter. 

Plants and Fungi of the Missouri Karst

What plants and fungi are often found around karst features?

White-Nose Syndrome in Missouri

In mid-April 2010, the Missouri Department of Conservation confirmed Missouri’s first signs of a new disease in bats that scientists have named “White-Nose Syndrome."