The cougar, or Puma concolor, is an endangered big cat species found in the mountainous regions of southern Missouri. This big cat's powerful hind leg muscles allow it to jump 18 feet vertically. As adults, the weight range of cougars is 150 to 230 lbs. According to Field and Stream magazine, the state of Missouri removed the cougar from their endangered species list.
One of the most common wild cats in the United States is the bobcat, or Lynx rufus; this feline species is found throughout Missouri's forests and plains regions. Larger bobcats are approximately 2 feet long and weigh nearly 30 lbs. A bobcat's home, also called a "den," is usually in rocky crevices or tree stumps.
The red fox, or Vulpes vulpes, is found throughout Missouri, especially north of the Missouri River. This canine grows up to nearly 6 feet, which includes the length of its tail. Red fox habitats include forests -- but not dense forests -- and open prairie areas. Much of the fur on red foxes is red, but its underbelly and tail tip are white.
Found throughout Missouri, coyotes, or Canis latrans, are seen in rural and urban areas. These canines are valued by Missourians due to their ability to maintain the rodent population in cities. Other habitats of coyotes include mountainous regions and lowland prairies. Coyotes are omnivorous, since they include berries and fruits in their diet.
North American river otters, or Lontra canadensis, are in Missouri's slow-moving streams and rivers in the Ozark Mountains. These weasel mammals were on the verge of extirpation in Missouri until they received protection from Missouri's Department of Conservation in the 1970s. North America river otters are playful animals, who spend their days swimming and sliding on river banks.
In Missouri, the long-tailed weasel, or Mustela frenata, is found in forests and wetland areas, particularly the Spring River Basin. This mustelid reaches lengths of 1 to 2 feet when fully mature. Long-tailed weasels are active during the day and night. These weasels release a musky odor when they feel threatened or excited.
The North American beaver, or Castor canadensis, is found in rivers and streams throughout Missouri, particularly the rivers in the Ozark Mountains. According to the Smithsonian National Zoological Park, this beaver is the largest rodent species in North America. As adults, North American beavers grow up to 3 feet in length.
Also called Synaptomys cooperi, the southern bog lemming is native to Missouri. The International Union for Conservation of Nature claims that populations of southern bog lemmings are decreasing, due to habitat loss and water degradation. The primary habitats for southern bog lemmings are plains, wetlands and forests.