A diverse array of avian life inhabits the Niobrara Valley. Five
western species reach their eastern limits in the valley, while
six northern oriented species reach their southern limits in the
valley. The central reach of the Niobrara River is ecologically
significant because it serves as an east-west avian corridor and
important meeting ground, especially for forest dependent
species. Hybridization of eastern and western associated
species, such as indigo and lazuli buntings, yellow-shafted and
red-shafted flickers, and Baltimore and Bullock's orioles are
vivid testament of the biological uniqueness of the Scenic
River. Outdoor enthusiasts are likely to encounter great blue
herons peering intently into the water; green herons,
cormorants, and white pelicans migrating through the river
valley during the spring; spotted sandpipers bobbing along
sandbars; or kingfishers plunging from an overhanging branch to
catch a minnow beneath the water's surface. The Niobrara is home
to several state and federally listed