From egrets to ospreys, from cuckoos to kingfishers - nearly 250 species of birds have been recorded between Fontenelle Forest Nature Center and Neale Woods during the past 10 years. Of these, more than 80 species are known to nest within FF's properties, making our lands the premier spot for birdwatching in the Omaha metropolitan area. Notable breeding birds include scarlet tanager, rose-breasted grosbeak, eastern bluebird, wood duck, Baltimore oriole, ruby-throated hummingbird, great-crested flycatcher, pileated woodpecker and great blue heron.

Spring migration brings many migrants through. Of these, none are more sought after than the colorful group of birds known as warblers. Thirty-five species have been recorded between Fontenelle Forest Nature Center and Neale Woods, most occurring between the end of April and the middle of May.

During winter, it is not uncommon to see bald eagles and common mergansers along the river, as well as regular winter residents like dark-eyed juncos, black-capped chickadees and a host of woodpeckers and native sparrows.

To keep track of your sightings, download our birding checklist here.

Join the FF Bird Club. Beginners to experts are welcome.

Go to our NatureSearch for more information on birds that can be spotted at Fontenelle Forest Nature Center and Neale Woods.