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Flora & Fauna

Animal Myths – Separating Fact From Fiction

By Monica Macoubrie, Wildlife Education Specialist Sometimes, our fascination with wildlife can lead to the perpetuation of myths and misconceptions. From fabled tales that have been passed down through the generations to more quirky beliefs that find their way into modern folklore, animal myths captivate our imagination and influence the way we perceive and interact with the creatures that share our planet. In this article, let’s peel back the layers of misinformation to reveal the captivating truths behind many remarkable …

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Foraging for Edible Wild Plants (or Parts Thereof) in Winter

Wait, what? Foraging for Edible Wild Plants (or Parts Thereof) in Winter, seriously? Yup! Trust me. Don’t stop reading. Stay with me here. Gathering wild foods in Nebraska IS NOT … I repeat IS NOT just a spring, summer or fall outdoor activity, it can be done in winter even with snow cover. I learned this from my grandfather, Frank Hintz. And I have done it successfully. Remember, if I can do it, you can do it! Plus foraging this …

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My 45th Year at Game and Parks

Forty-five years is very long time for anything, isn’t it? Forty-five years is an exceptionally long time for working at the same organization. Think about it — four-and-a-half decades. WOW! This year, 2024, marks the beginning of my 45th year at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. My career spans a few different divisions within the agency – Fisheries, Parks and Information and Education (now Communications). I will be 62 years of age this year and I started working at …

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December At-risk Species Spotlight – Trumpeter Swan

Trumpeter swans are one of North America’s greatest conservation success stories. By Olivia DaRugna, Wildlife Diversity Biologist Trumpeter swans are among the largest and heaviest of native waterfowl in North America, weighing about 25 pounds and standing close to 4 feet. Their large size makes getting airborne quite the achievement. Similar to an airplane, swans need a large, open space where they can gain enough speed, running to take flight using their long wings and shallow, rapid wingbeats to slowly …

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Frosty Wildlife Sanctuaries

The survival instincts of animals kick into high gear in the winter. By Monica Macoubrie, Wildlife Education Specialist As winter blankets the landscape with frost and snow, the survival instincts of wildlife kick into high gear. In this season of scarcity, the availability of quality habitats becomes crucial for the well-being and sustenance of various species. From birds and mammals to insects and aquatic life, each organism seeks refuge in habitats that provide warmth, food and protection from the elements. …

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Clash of the Bighorns

The bighorn sheep pre-rut provides an incredible show on Nebraska’s wildlife scene. By Justin Haag Nebraska’s Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) and their amazing climbing capabilities are enjoyable to watch throughout the year, but there’s arguably no greater show than when they put their heavy headwear to use during fall. It’s the headwear, after all, that gives the species its name. With a spread that can reach almost 3 feet wide, the horns on a mature ram can weigh …

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Tips for Late-Season Deer Hunting in Nebraska

It is the late period for deer hunting now and things can sure get tougher. In fact, things can even get tougher than they were during the regular firearm deer hunting season. After all, the rigors of the rut are pretty much over. But don’t put away your gear! Hear me out. I want to use a football analogy that many of you who hunt deer will understand when it comes to the late-season. For a football team, it is …

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Wildlife Viewing in December

Watch for these signs of wildlife in winter. By Olivia DaRugna, Wildlife Diversity Biologist The cool, crisp air; the silent, still landscape; and fewer hours of daylight — winter offers a unique time to spend outdoors. While viewing wildlife can be difficult in winter, looking for signs of wildlife is not. Winter is a great time to look for clues – such as tracks, scat and old nests – and solve the mysteries of the animals that passed through the …

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Regulation Reminders and Important Info for Waterfowl Hunters

The holiday season is upon us and it’s filled with many hunting traditions as family and friends get together, especially in waterfowl hunting blinds. For most of us, hunting is about much more than a successful harvest. It’s about spending time afield bonding with family and friends, watching the sunrise over a river wetland on a crisp morning or watching the sunset from a harvested cornfield on a warm, windy, brisk evening, plus having exciting stories to tell when you …

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Where Do Insects Go in Winter?

Explore the fascinating ways insects survive through Nebraska’s harsh winters. By Monica Macoubrie, Wildlife Education Specialist For humans, winter means thick, fuzzy blankets, space heaters and hot chocolate to keep ourselves warm during the short, cold days. For many animals, winter is a time of change and adaptability, as temperatures dip and the amount of daylight gets shorter. For example, some animals migrate, some hibernate and others stay active throughout the season. Insects, however, have a few more creative strategies …

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