WILDLIFE WONDERS: WHERE AND WHEN TO SPOT NEBRASKA’S WILD THINGS WHERE: ELK Head to Pine Ridge National Recreation Area south of Chadron and look for the elk feeding on grasses near the edge of the meadow and forest. WHEN: Dawn and dusk TIP: Fall is mating season, and you may catch two bulls fighting for the right to mate. BISON Over 350 bison roam free at the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge. Bison are a herd animal and are often seen in packs. Male bison are slightly larger than the females, but can weigh considerably more. All day Bring binoculars—the bison are often out in the meadows away from the roads. BIGHORN SHEEP BALD EAGLE Spot bighorn sheep in the Cedar Canyons Wildlife Management Area near Gering. Look for them in the pine forests and badlands of the Black Hills Overlook Trail or on the pinnacles of Fort Robinson State Park west of Crawford. Hike the 3.1-mile trail in Indian Cave State Park and look for bald eagle nests along the section that passes the Missouri River. Alternatively, drive along the Platte River between North Platte and Sutherland, or visit Lake McConaughy’s heated viewing facility just below Kingsley Dam. All day Dawn and dusk Sheep are social animals, so if you spot one, there are likely others in the area. Look for nests where the forest meets the river. Getting out on the water improves chances of spotting a nest. WILD TURKEY The highest concentrations of wild turkeys can be found along the Missouri River at Ponca State Park. You’ll likely hear them before you see them; the sound of their gobble can travel up to a mile. All day Turkeys love to hang out in harvested fields. SPYING A SHEEP FAMILY AT FORT ROBINSON “We had a blast at Fort Robinson State Park. Such a beautiful gem. I’ve always been amazed at the bluffs and fascinated with the sheep in that part of the state. And guess what? We were fortunate enough to get to see several sheep, including a two-day-old baby. So sweet!” Bighorn sheep at Fort Robinson State Park, Harrison. NEBRASKALAND MAGAZINE 38 Visit Nebraska
Nebraska Official State Travel Guide 2018 Nebraska Official State Travel Guide: Page 38
