Forest Park is a 1,3000-acre urban habitat that is teeming with life. It includes nearly 194 acres of Nature Reserve that supports a diverse ecosystem of plants, animals and insects.

Insects

Chiggers and other biting insects are present in Forest Park. Many thrive in the heat and are very active during the warmer months of the year. Bug spray can be a deterrent, but it is not a solution. Wearing long sleeves and pants tucked into socks offers the best protection.

Wildlife

Forest Park Forever seeks to provide a positive environmental impact and a home for urban wildlife within the heart of St. Louis. It's part of our daily work! Our expertise have observed that birds, turtles and other plant-eating animals live in Forest Park. This habitat is also home to predators like hawks, foxes and even urban coyotes.

The Missouri Department of Conservation is a great resource for learning to live with the wildlife in Missouri who share our habitats. For their safety and ours, it's essential that visitors avoid behaviors that encourage human-wildlife interaction.

If you encounter wild animals in Forest Park or any park, please do not approach wild animals and do not feed them. This only encourages unsafe human contact.

St. Louis Animal Care & Control does not respond to reports of nuisance wildlife. Animal Care & Control will respond to a report of injured wildlife, or wildlife that poses a safety or health issue. 

Report and injured or sick wildlife to the Citizen’s Service Bureau, or contact the St. Louis City Park Rangers by calling 314.289.5350. Do not try to capture or adopt them, even one that appears young or injured. It's illegal, and does more harm than good. 

Find more information on how Saint Louis Animal Care & Control handles wildlife and additional organizations who may be able to offer guidance on the City’s website.

Unleashed dogs are in violation of Park regulations.
If you observe an unleashed dog or dogs, call 911 and contact St. Louis Animal Care & Control by calling 314.657.1500. Animal Care & Control possess the proper training, equipment and authority to handle such situations.

Thank you for keeping these tips in mind. We hope you enjoy your time in Forest Park!