One Of Nebraska’s Most Incredible Wildlife Spectacles Takes Place In This Unassuming Small Town
By Delana Lefevers|Published October 07, 2018
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Delana Lefevers
Author
As a lifelong Nebraskan, Delana loves discovering the many hidden treasures of her state. She has worked as a writer and editor since 2007. Delana's work has been featured on more than a dozen websites and in Nebraska Life Magazine.
The annual sandhill crane migration is one of the most incredible natural experiences one can have in Nebraska. It’s not just beautiful to look at; the sounds of the cranes calling to one another and the whoosh of their wings are unlike anything else. There are numerous places to experience the migration along the Platte River, but one spot offers the ultimate migration vantage point.
Rowe Sanctuary isn't technically located within the town limits of Gibbon, but this little locale of 1800 residents is the nearest town. It shares a zip code with the sanctuary, which is located directly south of Gibbon.
If you need some quick supplies while visiting to witness the migration (or just want the chance to experience small-town Nebraska life), Gibbon is the place to go. The whole of Gibbon occupies less than a square mile, and it's the quintessential little Nebraska town.
Head a bit south from Gibbon and across the Platte and you'll find Rowe Sanctuary, which is arguably the best place in the country to experience the spring migration of the majestic sandhill cranes.
The spectacle lasts for a few short weeks, peaking sometime in March. The Iain Nicholson Audubon Center at Rowe Sanctuary is an incredible spot to not only observe the cranes but also to learn about the birds and their amazing journey.
From this vantage point, you can watch the sandhill cranes as they peck at last fall's leftover corn in the fields, gather in the river, and put their magnificent wingspans on display.
If you want the full sandhill crane experience, venture outdoors. The cold March air, the gorgeous spring sunsets, and the cacophony of bird voices and wing flaps all combine to make this the most spectacular place to be in the spring.
The friendly people of nearby Gibbon all have their own secret spots for watching the migration; if you're lucky, they may share some insider information with you. Even if you don't visit with the locals, though, this is the perfect spot to be each spring.
For more information about the Rowe Sanctuary, visit its website here. Find some very important safety and etiquette information for migration-watching here.
For even more information on the spring sandhill crane migration, check out this article from the archives.
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