With Independence Day coming up in July and other semiquincentennial celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the United States, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is encouraging people to look for red, white and blue in nature through a holiday hike, bird-watching, backyard fun, fishing and other outdoor activities. MDC offered the following suggestions for finding red, white and blue in nature: • Red royal catchfly flowers • Male summer tanagers

• White beardtongues or foxgloves

• White great egrets

• Blue false indigos

• Male indigo buntings Individuals seeking more information about these and other Missouri plants and animals, including where to find them, can use the MDC online Field Guide at mdc. mo.gov/discover-nature/ field-guide.

Those looking for outdoor recreation ideas can find activity suggestions through MDC at mdc. mo.gov/discover-nature/ activities. The website includes information on cycling, backyard nature activities, bird-watching, fishing, camping, float…