Three species of animals in Kansas have seen their populations increase significantly, leading to a recommendation to downgrade their status from threatened to “species in need of conservation.” The broadhead skink, northern map turtle, and shoal chub have all shown positive growth in their known populations, attributed to improved research and habitat conservation efforts.
The broadhead skinks, with yellow stripes and mostly found in southwestern Kansas, have seen their numbers rise from 15 in 1987 to roughly 400 in 2023. Northern map turtles, known for their short tails and basking in slow-moving waters, have increased from 10 in 1993 to 100 in recent years. Shoal chubs, small minnows with brief lifespans, were classified as threatened in 2009 with about 1,000 identified, but recent surveys found more than 7,000.
The success of these species is a result of expanded survey areas, improved research methods, and greater consideration for habitat diversity. While there is a potential for the species to become threatened again in the future, conservation efforts will continue to ensure their protection and preservation.
Source
Photo credit kansasreflector.com
