Department
Geosciences
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Abstract
The Duck Creek local fauna was discovered in a gravel pit near the Smoky Hill River in southeastern Ellis County, Kansas. Mammalian remains in the fauna include four species of the family Soricidae, two of the Leporidae, two of the Sciuridae, two of the Geomydae, six of the Muridae, and one of the Mustelidae. Based on habitat requirements of extant species in the fauna, the Duck Creek local fauna is presumed to consist of elements of two biotic communities: moist-riparian, and upland. A late Pleistocene age for the fauna is suggested by the stage of evolution and preferred habitats and geologic ranges of extant species. More specifically, both the stratigraphic position of the fauna and a faunal comparison with other late Pleistocene Great Plains faunas indicate that the Duck Creek local fauna is Illinoian in age.
Advisor
Michael E. Nelson
Date of Award
Spring 1974
Document Type
Thesis - campus only access
Recommended Citation
McMullen, Terrance L., "The Mammals of the Duck Creek Local Fauna, Late Pleistocene of Kansas" (1974). Master's Theses. 1523.
DOI: 10.58809/YIYY3127
Available at:
https://scholars.fhsu.edu/theses/1523
Rights
© 1974 Terrance L. McMullen
Comments
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