The Nebraska Sandhills are an ecologically unique geologic formation not found anywhere else in the world. The Sandhills are the western hemisphere’s largest collection of inactive sand dunes, covered with mixed and short-grass prairie. By being at the convergence of the Sandhills and the North Loup River Valley, the Ord area is home to a variety of unique animals and plant species in one of the last stands of surviving prairie ecosystems.

Our area lakes and rivers provide perfect access points to catch glimpses of area wildlife. During the winter, the North Loup River is a major flyway corridor for Canadian and snow geese, and a multitude of duck species migrating south with bald eagles in tow. During the spring and summer, our rivers are full of prairie song and shorebirds like red wing blackbirds, orioles and great blue herons.

For instructional, guided viewing opportunities, private outfitters exist which include the Calamus Outfitters and Gracie Creek Ranch. Each are are great locations for viewing rare bird species like prairie chickens during their leks (annual spring mating ritual).