Get Out!

Fun things to do and great places to discover nature.

• Listen for migrating birds, especially Canada geese, in the evening.
• Leave the leaves where they fall. They protect sleeping pollinators. Bonus: No raking!
• Be bear aware when you’re hiking or hunting for fall mushrooms. (Never eat a wild mushroom unless you’re sure it’s safe.)
• Xplor the awesome adaptations of owls, beavers, bats, and coyotes on Thursday, September 24, from 6–7 p.m. outdoors at Krug Park Amphitheater in St. Joseph. For more information, email Shelby.Smith@mdc.mo.gov.
• Black bears start fattening up for winter hibernation in September.

Looking for more ways to have fun outside? Find out about Discover Nature programs in your area at mdc.mo.gov/events.

Critter Corner

Red Admiral

These black, red, and white butterflies flit through Missouri’s woods, gardens, and open areas from March through November. They also gather at mud puddles or along creek beds and lake shores. Their wings are patchy and drab-colored underneath. Folding their wings at rest helps them blend in to their surroundings. To sip tree sap or wildflower nectar, they uncurl their long, strawlike tongues. Like the monarch, some red admirals migrate south for the winter. Learn more at mdc.mo.gov/field-guide.

Wooly Bear Caterpillar

By Noppadol Paothong

Contrary to popular belief, the black and brown bands on a woolly bear caterpillar won’t help you forecast how long winter will last. In the fall, look for these fuzzy leaf-munchers wiggling across roads as they search for cozy spots to spend winter.