Ankeny
Ecosystem Overview
The Ankeny ecosystem supports 35 documented wildlife species across 33 taxonomic genera. Located in polk county, iowa, this area provides critical habitat with diverse natural communities. The location hosts 8 frequently observed species and 6 occasionally documented species, creating a balanced ecosystem with both resident and visiting wildlife. While Polk County nearby has 65% more documented species, Ankeny offers unique wildlife observation opportunities. This location ranks #2 for species diversity among 13 polk county County natural areas, placing it in the 85th percentile for biodiversity.
Biodiversity Highlights
Species Distribution
Regional Context
Most Common Species
Showing 20 most frequently observed species out of 35 total documented species.
Lepomis macrochirus
Bluegill sunfish
Lepomis cyanellus
Green sunfish
Apis mellifera
Western Honey Bee
Chamaecrista fasciculata
Sleepingplant
Bombus impatiens
Common Eastern Bumblebee
Asclepias incarnata
Pleurisy Root
Solanum carolinense
Apple-Of-Sodom
Heliopsis helianthoides
Rough Oxeye
Diabrotica undecimpunctata
Spotted Cucumber Beetle
Sphecius speciosus
Eastern Cicada-Killer Wasp
Antheraea polyphemus
Polyphemus Moth
Vanessa atalanta
Red Admiral
Papilio glaucus
Eastern Tiger Swallowtail
Synchlora aerata
Wavy-Lined Emerald
Lithobates catesbeianus
Common Bullfrog
Acris blanchardi
Blanchard's Cricket Frog
Sylvilagus floridanus
Lapin A Queue Blanche
Verbena hastata
Wild Hyssop
Melilotus albus
white melilot
Eryngium yuccifolium
Rattlesnake-Master
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Nearby Wildlife Areas in Polk County
Discover 8 other wildlife-rich locations near Ankeny. Each offers unique biodiversity and wildlife viewing opportunities.
🌿 Premier Wildlife Areas (1 nearby)
🌱 Specialized Habitats (3 nearby)
📍 Explore These Areas (4 nearby)
Regional Wildlife Network
These nearby locations complement Ankenywithin Polk County's wildlife network. Species counts reflect documented observations and help identify the most biodiverse areas for your nature explorations.