What We Know: As Americans celebrate Independence Day and the nation’s 250th birthday, the Missouri Department of Conservation is inviting families to head outdoors and see how much red, white and blue they can find in nature.
What It Means: A hike, fishing trip, birdwatching outing or even time spent in the backyard can reveal plenty of patriotic colors across Missouri’s landscape.
MDC suggests keeping an eye out for red royal catchfly flowers, bright red male summer tanagers, white great egrets and white beard-tongues, along with blue false indigos and colorful male indigo buntings.
What’s Next: Those wanting to learn more about Missouri’s native plants and wildlife can use the department’s online Field Guide.
MDC also offers ideas for outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, floating, wildlife watching and nature photography, along with information about conservation areas and other places to explore across the state.
Officials say it’s a fun way to celebrate both Independence Day and America’s 250th anniversary while enjoying Missouri’s great outdoors.
(The deep blue male indigo bunting can be seen flying up from gravel roads. Photo provided by the Missouri Department of Conservation)