Audubon of Kansas (AOK), an independent grassroots nonprofit organization, is dedicated to fostering appreciation and stewardship of natural ecosystems in Kansas and the central Great Plains, emphasizing prairie, birds, wildlife, and their habitat conservation. Operating autonomously from the National Audubon Society, AOK comprises members and supporters statewide, governed by a Board of Trustees with diverse backgrounds. Collaborating with local Audubon chapters and various organizations, AOK works across Kansas, Nebraska, and the central Great Plains, aiming to establish a conservation culture and environmental ethic in the region. Despite its independence, AOK partners with individuals, businesses, communities, policymakers, and conservation groups, relying on support to uphold its commitment to conservation efforts in the central Great Plains and prairie states. Established in 1999, AOK continues its legacy, with Executive Director Jackie Augustine leading the organization's ongoing success and engagement in state-wide conservation issues.

audubon of kansas

Kansas, located in the Great Plains region of the United States, has a unique biodiversity and environmental landscape. The state is known for its grasslands, prairies, and wetlands, which support a diverse array of plant and animal species.

Kansas has over 7,500 documented species, including 3,500 plant species, over 460 bird species, 100 species of mammals, and more than 50 species of reptiles and amphibians. Additionally, the state is home to over 250 species of fish, which can be found in its many rivers and streams.

Despite the state's extensive biodiversity, many of its plant and animal species are threatened or endangered. The reasons for these species' decline vary, but habitat loss, invasive species, and pollution are significant factors.


kansas

The Black-tailed Prairie Dog (Cynomys ludovicianus) is a rodent species found in the grasslands of North America. The estimated remaining population is unknown but generally decreasing. The main threats to this species include habitat loss, disease outbreaks, and extermination efforts. Conservation efforts involve habitat conservation, management plans, and promoting coexistence with human activities.

black-tailed prairie dog

The Black-Footed Ferret (Mustela nigripes) is a slender, elusive mustelid endemic to North American grasslands. Adults measure roughly 46–61 cm in total length, weigh between 645 – 1125 g, and feature yellowish-fur with black mask, feet, and tail tip—a distinctive “bandit” appearance. Once thought extinct, the species was rediscovered in Meeteetse, Wyoming, in the 1980s; all remaining individuals were brought into captivity for a breeding program, making the species a notable conservation success story. Today, approximately 350–400 ferrets exist in the wild across multiple reintroduction sites. Typically living 4–5 years in the wild with much shorter mean survival due to high juvenile mortality, they are strictly dependent on prairie dog colonies—for both food (a ferret kills hundreds of prairie dogs annually) and shelter, residing in their burrows. High threats stem from disease (plague and distemper) and prey loss. Natural predators include badgers, coyotes, and raptors. Despite these challenges, conservation continues via captive breeding, ongoing reintroductions, habitat management, and disease control—efforts crucial to sustaining this rare, emblematic species.

black-footed ferret

The whooping crane (Grus americana) is one of the most endangered bird species in North America. With an estimated population of around 600 individuals, reintroduction projects are now in place and the population is estimated to be increasing. The major threats to whooping cranes include habitat loss, collision with power lines, illegal shooting, and disturbance at breeding sites. Conservation efforts involve habitat protection, captive breeding programs, and public awareness campaigns to ensure their survival.

whooping crane

The Lesser Prairie-Chicken (Tympanuchus pallidicinctus) is a unique bird species native to the Southern Great Plains of the United States. Known for its striking appearance and elaborate courtship displays, this grouse-like bird plays a vital role in grassland ecosystems. However, its population has dramatically declined due to habitat loss, primarily caused by agricultural and energy development. Conservation efforts are urgently needed to protect its dwindling habitat, implement sustainable land-use practices, and mitigate the threats it faces.

lesser prairie-chicken​

Audubon of Kansas (AOK), an independent grassroots nonprofit organization, is dedicated to fostering appreciation and stewardship of natural ecosystems in Ka...

audubon of kansas

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