Ducks and geese that travel through Missouri in fall are coming from their nesting areas in the upper Midwest and southern Canada.
When ponds and lakes in the north start to freeze and food becomes scarce, these waterfowl move southward to warmer climates.
For most, the Midwest is only a stopover for resting and refueling with food.
But some do spend all winter in the Midwest.
Others travel further south, only to visit again in spring on their way back to northern nesting areas.

http://mdc.mo.gov