Birding

Sandhill Cranes are quite social, which makes observing them interesting and entertaining. It is not uncommon to see them dancing together during the day. The best time to view the cranes at the Rowe Sanctuary is usually March and early April, when they are on their way north. On their way back south, the cranes typically fly over the Platte River Valley between September and November; it is unusual for them to linger in the valley, as they do in the spring.

Burchard Lake, south of Lincoln, is a good spot to view fascinating prairie chickens. Those willing to be up before dawn will find the male’s mating dances well worth the effort. A little bird viewing before breakfast stimulates the appetite – and it is always good to sit down to a meal at a Nebraska B&B or Unique Lodging ready to eat.

In Northwest Nebraska, the Agate Fossil Beds National Monument is a great spot to view ring-neck pheasants and sharp-tailed grouse year round. Many other species stop here during their annual migration, thanks to the rich wetlands of the Niobrara River. In the Northeast, you’ll want to bring your binoculars to the Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area. Wild turkey and bald eagles are frequently spotted here.