Pack Rat (Neotoma cinerea)

The Pack Rat, also known as the Busy-Tailed Woodrat, builds nests out of twigs and branches outside of small caves and holes called “middens.” These nests are used, not only as a home, but for protection from predators. You can see a Pack Rat nest in front of this post. It may look like a bundle of sticks up against a log.

Mulberry Tree (Morus alba)

Native to China, the mulberry tree was introduced into the Americas for silk worm culture. Mulberry leaves are the sole source of food for silk worms. The white mulberry was hybridized with red mulberry trees into the American version found from the East coast to Kansas. In China, the mulberry tree was considered the tree of life. The tallest Mullberry tree in Kansas stands 71ft tall! It is located in Stafford.

Honeylocust

(Gleditsia triacanthos)

Native to North America, the honeylocust is utilized by farmers for windbreaks and provides some food for animals through its fruits. CAUTION: THIS TREE HAS LARGE THORNS! The largest one recorded in Kansas stands 60ft tall with a canopy spread of 40ft. Within this tree you will find Riverbank Grape (Vitis riparia), a member of the grape family, this fruit grows in many wooden areas and provides food for several animals.

Russian-Olive Tree (Elaeagnus angustifolia)

This tree originates from Europe and was introduced in the United States in the late 1800s as an ornamental tree because of its silvery color. Because it reproduces easily, this tree can be found in all but 10 states and is considered an invasive species by the NPS. This tree tends overrun native plants. On the other hand, over 50 different species of mammals and birds utilize this tree for food.

Smooth Sumac (Rhus glabra)

Smooth sumac is very important to deer and other browsing animals during cold months when other plants are not available for food. Scientists have even found antibiotic and antifungal components in smooth sumac, which correlates to the medicinal uses by Native Americans. Sumac was even used for beverages, dyes, and salads.

Enjoy a walk on the trail to observe wildlife and nature. Part of the trail is elevated over a wetland and running stream