MARCH 2015 • NEBRASKAland 43
fritillaries' larvae feed solely on violets, and prairie violets
now abound in our prairie. On dewy June mornings, the tall
grass hums with the boisterous song of male bobolinks, red-
winged blackbirds and dicksissels defending their territories
from rivals in melodic fashion. This past summer we saw
our first brood of young prairie chickens, and in winter,
sharp-tailed grouse are occasionally present as well.
Restoring our family prairie has demanded many trips
to the farm to dig musk thistles, mow fire breaks, and
undertake other tasks, but for us it is a labor of love. Overly
optimistic at first and frustrated at times, we now measure
success in small increments – a bit less smooth brome here,
more compass plants there, a louder clamor of summer birds.
We are heartened by the thought that Uncle Henry would
appreciate our efforts.
For more information of restoring prairies see "A Guide
to Prairie and Wetland Restoration in Eastern Nebraska"
available online at prairienebraska.org.
The rare regal fritillary butterfly is one of the many wildlife
species recolonizing the prairie as native plants recover. Its
larvae feed solely on violets.
This past November, horses graze a smooth brome-dominated area of the prairie.
Spring and fall livestock grazing can stress this non-native, cool-season grass giving native plants a chance to grow.
See more photos from this story. S
PHOTO
BY
CHRIS
HELZER
