• CRANE MIGRATION
  • The Great Gathering Place
  • The Central Flyway
  • Nebraska's Platte River
  • What Others Say
  • Crane Events
• CRANE VIEWING
  • Viewing Areas
    • Self Tours
    • Guided Tours
    • Book A Blind
  • Viewing Etiquette
  • What to Expect
• Crane Facts
  • Vital Statistics
  • Photo Gallery
• Rainwater Basin
  • What's a Rainwater Basin?
  • Birds of the Basin
  • Rainwater Basin Viewing Areas
• Other Wildlife
  • Prairie Chickens
  • Bald Eagle
  • Prairie Dog
  • Other Birds
  • Other Wildlife
  • Wildlife Calendar
  • Bird Checklist
• Visitor Info
  • Lodging Information
  • Crane Events
  • While You're Here
• Contact
  • Request Information
  • Share a Photo/Comment
• Media
  • Media Contact
  • News Releases
  • News Clips
  • Need a Hi-Res Photo?

Whether you’re on a self-guided tour, visiting a blind or driving in central Nebraska during the migration season, it helps to be ready for changing weather conditions so your experience can be as pleasant and memorable as possible.

• Weather conditions can change rapidly on the Great Plains during the late winter and early spring. Pay close attention to weather reports and watch conditions to ensure your safety and comfort.
   
• Be prepared with adequate clothing. Layering your clothing is a good idea, as mornings and evenings can be very chilly. Bring gloves and a cap as well.  Hand and foot warmers are highly recommended.
   
• If you book a blind, expect to arrive before sunrise for a morning tour and to stay after sunset for an evening tour. Visits to outdoor blinds typically take about two hours.
   
• Binoculars or a spotting scope can greatly enhance your viewing and will allow you to get “up close” without disturbing the birds.
   
• Rural roads can be muddy and slippery, so be prepared with proper footwear and use caution while driving. Additionally, many rural roads are gravel-surfaced, have “washboard’ surfaces and have blind intersections and hills. Drive carefully and at a sensible speed to avoid an accident.