Herds of bison and elk roam the scenic grasslands. Spring activities include the courtship of prairie chickens, nesting songbirds and Indian paintbrush in flower, followed by the coneflowers, butterflies and reptiles of summer. All seasons, watch for wild turkeys, river otters and deer, and see herons, turtles and songbirds in summer. Wintering bald eagles are popular viewing, too. Alive with the wildlife of the big river, Shanks plays host to the migrations of shorebirds, ducks and geese in spring and fall.
Summer brings herons and egrets from a nearby nest colony, songbirds, hawks and marsh birds.
Watch for muskrat and other water mammals year 'round. For year 'round wildlife viewing, Squaw Creek is one of the best locations in the state. During fall migration, snow geese, ducks, hawks and bald eagles are astounding, while spring brings shorebirds and marsh birds. Other times of the year you'll see waterfowl as well as deer, raccoons, beaver, muskrat, coyotes and many animals of the prairie marsh. Here are some of the state's conservation organizations and additional facilities.