Great Plains Nature Center

The new Great Plains Nature Center offers nature trails and indoor exhibits of the wildlife native to the area. At the crossroads of the continent, the Great Plains partakes of many influences. The desert of the American southwest contributes drought-adapted plants.  The eastern deciduous forest sends woodland species out from its margins to try their luck amongst the grasses.  The northeastern third felt the crush of the Pleistocene glaciers, which left behind some near-Arctic species when they retreated.  Drought and flood, extremes of heat and cold, fire and the hand of man are constantly reshaping the area.

Any animal that lives on the Great Plains must be adapted for the grassland ecosystem and the extremes of climate that prevail here.  Rainfall varies from less than 25 cm. (10") per year on the high plains to around 112 cm. (45") per year where the tallgrass prairie blends into the eastern deciduous forest.  The annual swing of temperature can be as much as 130 degrees Fahrenheit (~ 55 degrees Celsius) between winter and summer.  The wind can be a major factor as well.  Weather systems typically move fast on the Great Plains, stirring up the atmosphere with dramatic results.  Aerial creatures such as birds and insects must be able to cope with this constant shifting of the medium they inhabit.

The Koch Habitat Hall is the centerpiece of the Great Plains Nature Center.  At the far end of the Koch Habitat Hall, visitors can enter the Wildlife Observatory which looks out onto the wetlands of Chisholm Creek Park.  The area immediately outside the windows is landscaped with a recirculated stream, bird feeders and plants attractive to butterflies and birds.  Binoculars, spotting scopes and field guides are available for visitors.  Please inquire at the front desk in the lobby to use them.

Great Plains Nature Center
6232 E. 29th Street North
Wichita, KS 67220-2200
Call:  316-683-5499
http://www.gpnc.org/

Attractions:
<< Wranglers | Old-town >>