Nebraskaland

18 Nebraskaland • May 2026 In the Field There's nothing quite like unzipping your tent in the early morning, smelling the dew on prairie grass and hearing the distant call of a western meadowlark. And maybe — if you're lucky — there might be a set of deer tracks leading past your site. Camping in Nebraska means sharing space with some truly incredible wild neighbors. Whether you're pitching a tent along the Niobrara River, stargazing in the Sandhills or nestled in a cottonwood pocket along the Missouri, it's important to know what critters you might encounter — and how to be a respectful guest in their home. Expect Company, Even if You Don't See Them First things first: You're not alone out there. From raccoons and owls to bullsnakes and bats, wildlife is active all around you, especially once the sun starts to dip. Many of Nebraska's critters a re n o c t u r n a l , o r c re p u sc u l a r, meaning they come alive during t h e h o u r s a ro u n d d aw n a n d dusk. So, while you're toasting marshmallows or settling into your sleeping bag, the forest, prairie or riverbank around you is just starting to wake up. Yo u m i g h t h e a r r u s t l i n g i n the brush, the deep hoot of a great horned owl perched in a cottonwood, or the distant, high- pitched yip of a coyote echoing across the hills. These sounds can be thrilling — or a little unnerving if you're not used to them. They're all part of the Nebraska wild experience. It's like nature's nighttime soundtrack, reminding you that even if you can't see your wild neighbors, they're definitely out and about. And let's not forget the smallest — sometimes most noticeable — creatures: insects. Mosquitoes are a given during summer months, especially near water or after rain, and Nebraska ticks are tenacious little hitchhikers, so checking yourself and your dog after a hike is necessary. Horseflies, especially out west or in wet meadows, are surprisingly bold — and if you've met one, you know what I mean. Long sleeves, bug spray and a good sense of humor go a long way. The takeaway? Wildlife is all around you, from the tiniest tick to the clever raccoon sneaking around your camp at night. Expect company — and treat them with curiosity and respect. Store Your Food If there's one guaranteed way to attract a curious raccoon, a sneaky opossum or even a bold skunk, it's leaving your food out overnight. Ne b r a s k a's w i l d a n i m a l s h ave incredibly keen senses of smell — some can detect food from quite a distance. And once they associate campsites with easy meals, they tend to return for more. To a v o i d v i s i t o r s r u s t l i n g through your marshmallows and granola bars, always store your food in tightly sealed containers, preferably in your vehicle. Coolers alone aren't always enough — raccoons are shockingly clever and strong, and they've been known to undo bungee cords, open lids and even unzip tents. Speaking of tents, never store food inside one. Even empty wrappers, toothpaste or the faint scent of snacks can invite a late-night rummaging. Also, don't forget about pet food. If your dog is tagging along, feed them away from your sleeping area and clean up immediately afterward. Dirty bowls, crumbs and half-eaten biscuits are fair game to a hungry critter. Keeping a clean campsite not only protects you and your Camping with Critters By Monica Macoubrie, Wildlife Education Specialist Raccoon raiding a picnic basket. NEBRASKALAND

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