42 Nebraskaland • October 2022
through October, and most waterfowl typically do not pass
through until October. With endless possibilities to view a
variety of sp ecies during fall migration, here are just a few
of our favorite places to enjoy this annual autumn spectacle.
Conestoga State
Recreation Area
Conestoga State Recreation Area has wide-ranging
habitats of a shallow wetland, shrubby fi elds and a large
waterbody that attracts a variety of migrating birds. The
shrubby fi elds and adjacent woodlands on the south end of
the lake attract a variety of songbirds like Lincoln's sparrows
and Nashville warblers. As with most waterbodies across the
state, when water levels are low, the exposed mud fl ats can
attract a variety of shorebirds during migration. The shallow
wetlands on the northwestern corner of the lake can be an
optimal location to view shorebirds in this area. During late
autumn, the large waterbody draws in hundreds of snow,
Canada and cackling geese as well as large fl ocks of redhead,
lesser scaup, gadwall, and many other species of ducks.
Marbled godwits at Kiowa Wildlife Management Area, Scotts Bluff County. JON FARRAR, NEBRASKALAND
A Nashville warbler. STEPHEN BRENNER