Nebraska is known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. It’s home to an array of different animals, from the mighty elk to the playful otter. With such a vibrant ecosystem, there’s never a shortage of wildlife to observe and explore. Here, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best spots for wildlife viewing in Nebraska and highlight some of the species you can expect to encounter.
Where to Go Wildlife Viewing in Nebraska
From the lush forests of Niobrara to the arid plains of the Sandhills, Nebraska has a variety of unique habitats that make it an ideal place for observing wildlife. Some notable spots include:
The Platte River
Every year, from late February to early April, over half-a-million Sandhill Cranes converge along the Platte River in Nebraska. Visitors can take part in guided tours or explore any of the various wildlife viewing areas along the river to witness this extraordinary event. In addition to the Sandhill Cranes, the Platte River is also home to a diverse range of waterfowl, fish, and river otters.
Chimney Rock National Historic Site
Chimney Rock is a geological formation that rises 480 feet above the North Platte River Valley. The site is a popular destination for hiking and wildlife viewing; visitors can witness the prairie dogs, mule deer, and coyotes that call Chimney Rock home.
Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge
Fort Niobrara is a designated National Wildlife Refuge that provides a habitat for a wide range of wildlife species, including elk, bison, and prairie dogs. Visitors can take guided tours to learn more about the local flora and fauna, or explore the miles of hiking trails that wind through the park.
Scotts Bluff National Monument
Scotts Bluff is a unique geological formation that serves as a natural habitat for a variety of animals. Visitors can take part in ranger-led hikes and wildlife viewing tours to observe the unique critters that call this area home, including pronghorn antelope, coyotes, and eagles.
Nebraska’s Unique and Native Wildlife
Here are some of the more common species of wildlife you might encounter in Nebraska:
Elk
Though they were nearly extinct in Nebraska in the late 1800s, elk have made a strong comeback in recent years. Today, Nebraska is home to over 2,000 elk, and visitors can observe these majestic animals in several locations around the state.
Bison
Once a staple of the Great Plains, the bison population in the United States was decimated by the late 1800s. Today, the bison has made a comeback in Nebraska, with over 500 of these magnificent animals living in state parks and wildlife refuges across the state.
Prairie Dogs
Prairie dogs are a social prairie species that live in large underground communities. Though they’re commonly seen in parks and other public areas, the vast majority of prairie dogs live in the Great Plains region of the United States, including Nebraska.
Sandhill Cranes
As we mentioned earlier, the Sandhill Crane migration is one of Nebraska’s most renowned tourist events. Every year, over 500,000 Sandhill Cranes stop in Nebraska along their journey north, providing visitors with a glimpse of this majestic bird.
River Otters
River otters are a playful and intelligent species that can be found in Nebraska’s many rivers and lakes. Though they can be difficult to spot, visitors can often see river otters playing, feeding, and frolicking in the waterways around the state.
Tips for Successful Wildlife Viewing
If you’re planning a trip to Nebraska to observe its amazing wildlife, here are some tips to help you get the most out of your experience:
Bring the Right Gear
Make sure you have comfortable shoes, proper clothing for the weather, binoculars, and a camera with a good zoom lens.
Practice Good Wildlife Watching Etiquette
Respect the animals by staying quiet and keeping a safe distance. Never feed or attempt to pet wild animals.
Get a Guide or Join a Tour
Guided tours with knowledgeable experts can give you detailed insights into the animals you’re viewing and help you locate some of Nebraska’s more elusive species.
Be Prepared and Patient
Wildlife viewing is a waiting game, so bring plenty of snacks and water and be prepared to wait for the animals to appear.
Conclusion
Nebraska is a prime destination for wildlife viewing. From prairie dogs to bison, the state is home to a diverse range of creatures. We hope this article has inspired you to explore Nebraska’s natural wonders and get out into the Great Outdoors to observe its incredible wildlife.