Nature

Birdwatchers in Kansas might notice tiny, yellow birds in their backyards, a songbird that only recently started breeding in Kansas. Plus: Midwest prairies are turning into woodland. Ranchers are trying to stop this change, but it’s an uphill battle.

The prothonotary warbler population in Kansas is growing as the birds stop to breed before heading south. Researchers are using electronic trackers to study their movements.

Purple martins are back in Kansas. Thousands of the birds are gathering near the Wichita airport each evening as they prepare for their annual migration. Plus: A small town in southcentral Kansas proudly bears the nickname “Midway USA,” positioning itself firmly between California and New York.

A sales tax that funds Missouri’s parks and soil and water conservation is back on the ballot this August. It's sharing the spotlight with eight other amendments, leaving advocates wondering if they can cut through the noise.

This was the first time in six years that Southwestern College in Winfield, Kansas, has displayed a rare blooming titan arum, known for its distinctive rotten smell. But by Monday morning, it had already begun to wilt.

"Scenic Natural Wonders of Missouri" includes shut-ins for summertime fun and trails for hiking and dirt bike riding.

A growing trend known as "digital detox" is reaching Missouri as people pay for experiences that help them step away from their phones.

The invasive golden oyster mushroom has been spotted in Boone County forests and is threatening native fungal biodiversity.

After 30 years of growth, Foundation for Regeneration is restoring the symbolic Heart Forest near Kansas City International Airport, adding an outline, trails and areas for guests to sit and reflect.

The annual "buyback" program spearheaded by the Missouri Invasive Plant Council offers residents a free native tree in exchange for removing invasive Callery pear. It's part of a larger effort to encourage more sustainable, pollinator-friendly landscaping choices and educate people about what's in their backyards.

Kansas City is exploring ways to manage stormwater naturally, using parks, gardens, and special pavement to soak up rains. The effort could reshape neighborhoods, improve water quality, and create more green space across the city.

The federal government promised Kansas City $59 million in security funding for the World Cup, but a partial shutdown put that money in limbo — with just months before the games kicked off. Plus: Mosses are the underdogs of the plant world. Now a group of scientists is coming together to protect them.