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BLUE SPRINGS, Mo. — The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will host a free program Saturday, Oct. 24, in Blue Springs for those wanting to learn more about common spiders and their importance in nature.
“Spiders of Missouri” will take place from 1–2 p.m. at MDC’s Burr Oak Woods Conservation Nature Center. The program is suggested for ages 12 and up, and registration is required at Events | Missouri Department of Conservation.
Missouri is home to around 480 species of spiders. Estimates suggest about 11,000 spiders inhabit a typical acre of Missouri forest and more than two million can be found in an acre of grassland.
Though largely misunderstood, spiders play an important role in healthy ecosystems. In addition to learning about the importance of spiders in nature, participants will learn about common Missouri spiders and how to identify them.
More information about spiders can be found at Spider Facts | Missouri Department of Conservation. A downloadable guide to Missouri’s spiders is available at A Guide to Missouri's Common Spiders.
Burr Oak Woods Conservation Nature Center is located at 1401 NW Park Rd., in Blue Springs.
MDC is committed to accessibility at all its nature centers, regional facilities, and conservation areas. To request an ADA accommodation for participation in MDC programs, visit https://mdc.mo.gov/accessibility.
