Experience the Wild Heart of the Great Plains at ReWild Ranch

Nebraska is a treasure trove for nature enthusiasts, offering vast prairies, winding rivers, and vibrant wetlands that teem with life. From iconic migratory birds to prairie mammals and elusive predators, the animals of Nebraska create a rich and diverse ecosystem worth exploring. 

Whether you’re here for sandhill crane viewing or to encounter Nebraska’s state animal, ReWild Ranch is your gateway to the best destinations for wildlife in the state.

The Sandhill Crane Spectacle

Each spring and fall, hundreds of thousands of sandhill cranes descend upon the Platte River Valley, creating one of the most remarkable wildlife migrations on Earth. This ancient ritual draws birders, photographers, and wildlife lovers from across the globe.

• Best Place to See Sandhill Cranes: The Kearney area is world-famous for its viewing opportunities, especially during the spring migration. From ReWild Ranch, guests can easily join sandhill crane tours in Nebraska that offer prime sunrise and sunset viewings.
• Best Time to See Sandhill Cranes: Spring (late February to early April) is peak season, but the sandhill cranes Nebraska fall migration (late October through November) offers a quieter, equally magical experience.

Nebraska’s State Animal & Other Native Species

If you’ve ever wondered, “What is the state animal of Nebraska?” — it’s the white-tailed deer. Revered for its grace and adaptability, this species thrives in woodlands, river valleys, and prairies across the state.

But the wild animals in Nebraska extend far beyond deer. Here are just a few highlights:

• American Bison: Once roaming the Great Plains in the millions, bison are now a conservation success story, thriving on ranches and preserves.
• Prairie Dogs: Black-tailed prairie dogs are a vital keystone species, supporting predators like coyotes, hawks, eagles, kestrels, owls, and the rare black-footed ferret.
• Bald Eagles: Seen year-round near rivers and lakes, with the highest numbers in winter when open water draws them to hunt fish and waterfowl.
• Endangered Wildlife: Nebraska protects species like the interior least tern and piping plover, which nest on river sandbars. Rare sightings include the reintroduced black-footed ferret and the occasional wandering gray wolf.
• Dangerous Wildlife: While encounters are uncommon, prairie rattlesnakes, mountain lions, and even bison can be dangerous. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.

The Best Wildlife Destinations in Nebraska

For travelers seeking the best wildlife destinations, Nebraska offers unique landscapes where nature thrives:

• The Sandhills: A vast, grass-covered dune ecosystem filled with migratory birds, pronghorn antelope, and waterfowl.
• Platte River Valley: The epicenter for sandhill crane-watching in Nebraska each migration season.
• Niobrara River: Known for its biodiversity, from river otters to bald eagles.
• Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge: Home to bison, elk, and prairie wildlife.
• ReWild Ranch: A premier lodge experience that combines luxury accommodations with immersive wildlife encounters.

Wildlife Viewing at ReWild Ranch

As a luxury lodge in the Nebraska Sandhills, ReWild Ranch offers guests exclusive access to native habitats and expert-guided tours. Whether you want to witness the sandhill crane migration in all its glory, photograph the state animal in its natural environment, or learn about animals in Nebraska and their impact, your stay will be unforgettable.

Plan Your Stay

From the awe of the sandhill crane fall migration to the quiet beauty of a deer at dawn, Nebraska offers wildlife encounters you’ll remember for a lifetime. 

‍Book your stay at ReWild Ranch today and step into the wild heart of the Midwest.