April 2025 • Nebraskaland 31
What to Do in April
Report sightings of whooping
cranes
Mid-March to mid-April | Primarily central Nebraska
As you're out exploring this month, be ready to report any sightings
of migrating whooping cranes. This critically endangered species may
spend time in wetlands and river channels, as well as in cornfi elds and
meadows near those habitats, mostly between Columbus and North
Platte. These large white birds stand 5 feet tall, with black wingtips
and reddish-black face masks. Never approach or pester these birds;
view them only from a safe distance. You can report sightings at
OutdoorNebraska.gov or by calling any Game and Parks offi ce.
ERIC FOWLER, NEBRASKALAND
Catch bluegills on
warm afternoons
As weather allows | Statewide
If warm weather is in the cards this
month, anglers could see some of the best
opportunities all spring for catching bluegills.
On warm spring afternoons, bluegills will
move into shallow, protected areas, searching
for prey. Make use of any wax worms left
over from ice-fi shing — and have fun. There's
nothing better than soaking up some early
spring sunshine on a shoreline, waiting for a
bobber to go under.
JEFF KURRUS, NEBRASKALAND
Watch the Lyrid meteor
shower
April 16-25, peaking in the early hours
of April 22 | Merritt Reservoir State
Recreation Area
Need a good excuse to spend some time under the
stars? Head to a dark sky location, like Merritt
Reservoir, to view the Lyrid meteor shower. One
of the oldest recorded meteor showers, it can
produce 15-20 meteors per hour at its peak. The
best time to watch is in the predawn hours. Be
patient, bring warm clothes and allow 30 minutes
for your eyes to adjust to the darkness.
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