Nature – Homestead on the Range

Greater Scaup

When seeing the greater scaup (Aythya marila), the overall impression is that of a big, thickset duck.

Switchgrass

Switchgrass is one of the dominant plant species of the tallgrass prairie, and it alone accounts for much of the natural soil-building that occurs on native prairies.

Kansas Regions Guide—Updated

Interested in learning more about the 11 regions of Kansas? You’ve come to the right place! We have updated our regions guide with new information on geology and wildlife.

Tufted Duck

The tufted duck (Aythya fuligula) may at first glance appear to be a ring-necked duck. However, this species has several differentiating characteristics worth noticing.

Sandbur

The sandbur (Cenchrus longispinus) is common through the United States, where it is mostly considered a noxious weed. It may occur in any part of Kansas.

Virginia Wild Rye

Virginia wild rye (Elymus virginicus) presents a somewhat variable appearance. To identify it quickly, look for a bunchgrass that resembles wheat or rye.

Ring-Necked Duck

When you first encounter the male ring-necked duck (Aythya collaris), you may be surprised to find that he has no obvious ring on his neck.

Redhead

The redhead duck (Aythya americana) may at first glance resemble the larger canvasback. However, its appearance is actually quite distinctive.

Canada Wild Rye

Also known as “nodding wild rye,” Canada wild rye (Elymus canadensis) is an attractive and distinctive species.

Kansas Taxidermy at the Chicago World’s Fair

Dyche’s taxidermy collection was shipped off to represent Kansas at the Chicago World’s Fair of 1893. Surprisingly, this move met with a great deal of resistance.