The Breeding Birds of Kansas

"The Breeding Birds of Kansas" by Richard F. Johnston is a mid-20th century scientific study that investigates the lives of 176 bird species nesting in Kansas. The study wants to pull together what was known at the time and pinpoint what still needed research about these birds' habits in Kansas. The book starts by explaining why it is important and explains that, despite some studies, there isn’t enough complete information, especially about when they breed and where they live at that time. Johnston describes the different environments in Kansas, such as forests, plains, lakes, and dry areas. This sets up the book for detailed information about each species, and breeding facts, gathered from many people's hard work in observing and understanding the birdlife in Kansas.