Get Out!

Look for the brilliant red blossoms of cardinal flowers blooming along streams, rivers, and wet areas across Missouri in September. The deep flowers provide energy-rich nectar to migrating hummingbirds.

In October, songbirds that nest far to the north arrive to weather winter in Missouri. Put out a bird feeder and keep your eyes peeled for dark-eyed juncos, white-throated sparrows, pine siskins, and purple finches. 

What’s shaped like a stubby banana, tastes like a tropical fruit, and can be found ripening along streams in September? It’s a pawpaw. For tips on picking and preparing these yummy native fruits, search for pawpaws at mdc.mo.gov/field-guide.

In the fall, black bears fatten up for winter by stuffing their furry bellies with whatever they can get their paws on. To avoid bear problems, don’t leave pet food outside and keep garbage containers indoors until trash day. To learn more about being bear aware, visit mdc.mo.gov/wildlife/wildlife-facts/be-bear-aware.

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