Each year, south-central Nebraska becomes a hub for one of nature’s most incredible phenomena —the annual spring bird migration. Whether you’re a seasoned birder, a photographer, or simply someone who enjoys the beauty of the natural world, Phelps County invites you to experience this awe-inspiring event.
Why Phelps County?
Phelps County is an ideal destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts as it’s off the beaten path and offers uncrowded locations to enjoy the migration. Our wetlands and open prairies provide a vital stopover for millions of migratory birds traveling along the Central Flyway. From majestic Sandhill Cranes to rare Whooping Cranes, from vibrant ducks to colorful warblers, the diversity of bird species here is nothing short of spectacular.
The new Visit 37 Birding Map highlights several areas for ideal bird watching in the county. View or download our new Phelps County Bird Watching Map or pick up a copy at the Phelps County Visitors Center at 504 4th Ave. in Holdrege.
Events and Activities
Phelps County has a few special events this spring that will appeal to bird watchers.
Iron Horse Arts District Pop-Up Gallery
The Iron Horse Arts District will host a pop-up art gallery March 4-31 at the Holdrege Public Library featuring Alma artist Cheyenne Riggleman. Cheyenne’s work dives into whimsical worlds full of plants and her favorite wildlife. Her art, full of childlike wonder, expresses her emotions and many of her experiences growing up in the Midwest. She often experiments with many art forms such as acrylic and oil painting, printmaking, photography and digital art. Meet Cheyenne at an artist reception from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, March 13.
Crepes & Cranes
The Funk School Community Center’s second annual Crepes and Cranes (aka pancake feed) will be from 8:30-10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 5 and will feature a presentation by renowned wildlife photographer Michael Forsberg at 9:45 a.m. Forsberg will share his journey to capture the lives of rare whooping cranes, and copies of his new book “Into Whooperland” will be available to purchase.
The FSCC is remodeling one of the former classrooms into a new gallery space to tell the story of local wildlife and cranes. The new gallery will house shows, workshops, and exhibits and is expected to be open in time for the Crepes and Cranes event.
Community Birding Fun & Specials
The Holdrege Sun Theater & Event Venue will provide a free small popcorn to anyone who shows a photo they took of a bird at one of the eight sights on the Phelps County Birding Map between March 1-April 10.
Also, watch for details on bird-themed activities at Lost Way Brewery in downtown Holdrege.
Must-Visit Bird Viewing Locations
Funk Waterfowl Production Area, 73746 V Road, Funk
The Funk Waterfowl Production Area, located just north and east of Funk at 73746 V Road, is a prime area for bird watching at all times of the year. In early spring, bird watchers have a chance to catch a glimpse of the rare whooping crane at the Funk WPA. According to savingcranes.org, only 836 whooping cranes are in the world and 134 of those are in captivity.
The whooping crane is North America’s tallest bird, standing about 5 feet tall with a wingspan of more than 7 feet. It weighs between 13 and 17 pounds.
USFWS Rainwater Basin Project Leader Brad Krohn said it’s common to see Whooping Cranes in the Funk WPA in late March to mid-April depending on whether there is water in the wetland. The Funk WPA accommodates bus parking and has public restrooms available during business hours (8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday). No park sticker is needed.
Krohn said February, March and April are also prime times to view pintail and mallard ducks and thousands of snow geese migrating through the area.
The nearly 2,000-acre waterfowl production area has an information kiosk with maps at the central parking lot. The Funk WPA also features the 3-mile Funk Peterson Trail, which was designated as a National Recreation Trail in 2008. A handicapped-accessible wooden walkway takes visitors into the Rainwater Basin for an up-close view of nature.
For directions and more information, visit the Funk Waterfowl Production Area website.
Sacramento-Wilcox State Wildlife Management Area
72755 V Road, rural Wilcox
This expansive habitat in south-central Nebraska is part of the Rainwater Basin, a crucial stopover for millions of migratory birds along the Central Flyway. Whether you’re an experienced birder or a nature enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to marvel at, including diverse habitats, waterfowl galore, and stunning sunsets. This WMA was the first Rainwater Basin wetland purchased by the Nebraska Game and Parks. Picnic tables and covered shelters are available for resting during the bird-watching experience.
Lake Seldom
Walk along a crushed limestone path while spotting birds at Lake Seldom south of Holdrege on Highway 183. It’s named Lake Seldom because it’s seldom a lake, except during extremely wet conditions. Several Sandhill Cranes are spotted here each year along with hundreds of other species of birds. This 325-acre wetland restoration project was specifically designed to enhance wildlife habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife.
North Park Lake
Meander along a 1-mile sidewalk as you take in the beauty of the North Park Lake, which is a great location for bird watching all year long. Geese, ducks and a swan live at the lake, and a lone blue heron can often be spotted there each summer. Other common sightings include wood ducks, cardinals and sparrows. Benches, picnic tables and covered shelters are available to sit and enjoy the scenery.
Plan Your Visit
The migration season peaks from late February through early April, so now is the perfect time to plan your trip. Stop by the Phelps County Visitors Center (Holdrege Area Chamber of Commerce) at 504 4th Ave. to pick up the 2025 Holdrege Area Visitors Guide and the Phelps County Birding Map.
Tips for Enjoying the Migration
- Arrive early or stay late: Birds are most active during sunrise and sunset, making these the best times to catch the action.
- Bring the essentials: binoculars, a field guide, and comfortable walking shoes are a must.
- Respect the wildlife: keep a safe distance from the birds, and follow all posted guidelines to protect their habitats.
- Stay overnight: Make it a weekend getaway! Phelps County offers cozy accommodations and plenty of dining options to round out your visit.
We invite you to stay in Holdrege at one of our three hotels or the new Shop House Airbnb in Bertrand and enjoy cranes and other birds.
Phelps County is a central place to stay to enjoy other area bird-watching experiences:
- Pelicans and eagles at Harlan County Lake near between Alma and Republican City
- Eagle viewing at CNPPID’s J-2 Facility near Johnson Lake
- Crane tours and blinds in Kearney and Gibbon
Take a break from the fast lane in our wide-open open uncrowded spaces when you Visit 37!
