Midwest · Mississippi Flyway

Birds in Missouri

Missouri sits at the crossroads of eastern forest, western plains, and the Mississippi Flyway.

400+Bird species
3Habitat types
1Birding hotspots
4+Cities

Popular cities in Missouri

Common Birds in Missouri

The most frequently reported bird species across Missouri. Click any bird for full profiles, photos, calls, and attraction tips.

Browse all birds →

Backyard Birds in Missouri

Birds that regularly visit feeders and gardens in Missouri. These are the species you're most likely to attract with the right food, plants, and habitat setup.

Find the right feeder →Bird-friendly plants →

Birds by Habitat in Missouri

Missouri spans 3 major habitat types. Explore birds adapted to each environment.

🌲Forest BirdsWoodland and canopy birds including woodpeckers, warblers, and owls.
🌊Wetland BirdsMarsh, lake, and river species—waterfowl, herons, and shorebirds.
🏙️Urban BirdsCity-adapted birds thriving in parks, gardens, and neighborhoods.

Top Bird Watching Spots in Missouri

The best places to go bird watching in Missouri, from national wildlife refuges to local sanctuaries.

1

Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area

Missouri River floodplain wetland—shorebirds and waterfowl.

Bird Calendar — Missouri

What to expect each month: migration arrivals, departures, and seasonal highlights.

February
Steady winter residents
March
Steady winter residents
June
Steady winter residents
July
Steady winter residents
August
Steady winter residents
November
Steady winter residents
December
Steady winter residents

Explore neighboring states

About birding in Missouri

Missouri is located in the Midwest region of the United States and falls along the Mississippi Flyway, one of four major North American migration routes. The state is home to more than 400 bird species across 3 habitat types: forest, wetland, urban.

Whether you're a backyard birder in Kansas City or planning a trip to Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area, this guide covers the most commonly seen species, seasonal patterns, and practical tips for attracting and identifying birds in Missouri.