Nebraska, known for its agricultural landscapes, also boasts diverse geographical characteristics that support a rich variety of animal life. Its central location in the United States creates a unique blend of ecosystems, where species from eastern woodlands, western escarpments, and mid-continental grasslands converge. The state’s varied habitats, from expansive prairies to intricate river systems, provide resources for numerous wildlife species.
Mammals Roaming Nebraska
Nebraska is home to over 90 mammal species. White-tailed deer are common throughout the state, found in brushy areas, woodlands, and suburban settings. Mule deer, identifiable by their large ears, thrive in rocky, arid regions. Both deer species are widespread, with white-tailed deer being the most numerous large mammal.
Among Nebraska’s carnivores, coyotes are highly adaptable, inhabiting diverse areas from grasslands to urban environments. American badgers are skilled predators that favor open areas with loose, sandy soils, preying on small mammals like prairie dogs. Raccoons are common, adapting to various habitats including forests, wetlands, and urban settings. Over 45% of Nebraska’s mammal species are rodents, including various squirrels, mice, and voles. Black-tailed prairie dogs live in prairie ecosystems.
Birds Gracing Nebraska’s Skies
Nebraska’s skies host over 400 bird species, including both resident and migratory populations. The state’s position within the Central Flyway, a major North-South migration corridor, makes it a significant stopover for millions of birds. Each spring, about a million sandhill cranes gather along the central Platte River valley, feeding in cornfields and wet meadows before continuing their northward migration. This gathering is one of North America’s most remarkable wildlife spectacles.
Other migratory birds, such as snow geese and greater white-fronted geese, concentrate in the Rainwater Basins during spring migration. The endangered whooping crane also utilizes the Platte River during its migration. Resident birds like the Western Meadowlark, Nebraska’s state bird, are found throughout the state, recognized by their yellow breasts. Common backyard birds include American Robins, which forage for worms and insects, and Downy Woodpeckers, frequently seen in wooded areas.
Aquatic and Cold-Blooded Inhabitants
Nebraska’s aquatic and terrestrial environments support a variety of cold-blooded animals, including reptiles, amphibians, and fish. The state is home to approximately 63 species of reptiles and amphibians, thriving in diverse habitats. Amphibians, such as American bullfrogs and various toad species, are found wherever water is present, returning to water for breeding. Northern leopard frogs and Woodhouse’s toads are commonly encountered amphibians.
Reptiles, including snakes, lizards, and turtles, are also widespread. Nebraska has both aquatic and terrestrial turtles, with the ornate box turtle being the only native terrestrial species. Snakes, such as bullsnakes and garter snakes, are active in warm weather near prey populations. Lizards, including the six-lined racerunner, are abundant in western counties. Nebraska’s waters, including rivers, streams, and numerous lakes, support over 100 fish species, with 78 presumed native. Popular species include channel catfish, largemouth bass, walleye, and various panfish like bluegill and crappie.
Nebraska’s Varied Ecosystems
Nebraska’s rich animal life is supported by its diverse ecosystems, including grasslands, wetlands, rivers, and woodlands. The state is comprised of four types of grassland spaces: tallgrass, shortgrass, mixed-grass, and Sandhills prairies, each supporting unique wildlife communities. These prairies provide food and cover for many species, from large herbivores to ground-nesting birds. The Sandhills, a distinctive ecosystem, offers dry upland dunes and moist lowland valleys.
Wetlands are abundant in Nebraska, providing habitats for 50% of the state’s bird species and all amphibian species. Rivers and streams offer habitat for numerous plant, fish, and wildlife species, and provide corridors for animal movement. Woodlands offer resources and cover, supporting species adapted to forested environments. The characteristics of these habitats, such as soil type, water availability, and vegetation structure, dictate which animal species can thrive in each area.
Safeguarding Nebraska’s Wildlife
Conservation efforts in Nebraska preserve the state’s biodiversity and natural heritage. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC) manages fish, wildlife, state parks, and outdoor recreation. This agency conducts wildlife surveys to monitor populations and harvest information. Research initiatives, including endangered species recovery, contribute to understanding and managing Nebraska’s wildlife.
The NGPC also develops wildlife management plans, gathering public input to ensure sustainable practices. Conservation programs aim to maintain the diversity and abundance of Nebraska’s plants, fish, wildlife, and their habitats. These efforts are supported by programs and resources designed to help landowners and communities enhance their properties for wildlife. Promoting watchable wildlife opportunities and nature-based experiences also helps build appreciation and stewardship for natural resources among the public.