It’s National Butterfly & Hummingbird Day! Here’s some species to look for in Kansas

Kansas is home to several species of butterflies and hummingbirds, but even more are passing through while they make their winter migrations.

There are 319 different species of hummingbirds, and only 15 of those are found in the nation. In Kansas, only the ruby-throated hummingbird is common in the Sunflower State, but in October you can find Rufous and broad-tailed hummingbirds migrating south. These birds nest along streams and woodland parks, so they’re more abundant in eastern Kansas.

There around 66 butterflies common in Kansas, and only six are not typically found in the fall. That means there are potentially 60 different species of butterflies to look out for.

Butterflies can generally be found in areas where wild flowers, cultivated flowers and wilder species like milkweed and dogbanes are commonly found. Certain plants may attract certain kinds of butterflies as well. For example, buckeye, wood nymph and hackberry butterflies are often found near Hackberry and fruit trees.

Whether you’re out on a fall hike or just sitting in your backyard, October is a great time to spot some of the many different species found in Kansas.

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