Outdoor notes: Wildcat Hills education events set for February

GERING - Naturalists with the Wildcat Hills Nature Center offer year-round programming focused on ecological education for preschoolers, homeschool programs and the public, including the following events scheduled for February.

The Nature Center, located within Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area south of Gering, is open 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Mountain time Monday-Friday, from mid-November to mid-May.

A vehicle park entry permit is required. Get more information at 308-436-3777 or OutdoorNebraska.gov.

Wildcat Hills preschool program

The free, monthly Wildcat Tales preschool program is on Feb. 17, with the theme of fossils of Nebraska.

The program will meet at the Wildcat Hills Nature Center at 10 a.m. It will include a lesson plan, story and hands-on activity specifically targeted for children ages 2-6 years.

For more information, contact the Nature Center. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Wildcat Hills homeschool program

Investigate fossils and learn about the ancient creatures that once lived in Nebraska during the homeschool program Feb. 19.

The free program meets once a month at 10 a.m. at the Wildcat Hills Nature Center. Certified staff will lead various programs each month that showcase a different theme, focusing on ecosystems, animals, adaptations and habitats found only in western Nebraska.

For more information contact the Nature Center. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Reserve Niobrara State Park blind for sharptail viewing

Experience the spring ritual of the sharp-tailed grouse mating dance from a viewing blind at Niobrara State Park.

Male sharptails return to the same lek each year for this sunrise display of dancing to attract females. Reserve the viewing blind between March 1 and May 1, with the peak being between March 7 and April 20.

The park’s large trailer blind can hold up to 12 guests but holds 10 guests comfortably. Two pop-up blinds are available for those with bigger cameras and camera stands that won’t fit in the trailer blind. Reserve a spot by calling the park office at 402-857-3373. All blinds are free.

Call the park office before your arrival to confirm that the birds are still active before and during the dates listed.

Make an early arrival easy by staying at one of the park’s fully equipped cabins or electric campsites.

To make lodging reservations, visit NebraskaStateParks.ReserveAmerica.com and use promo code “SHARPTAIL26” for a discounted rate.

Find out more information about Nebraska State Parks at OutdoorNebraska.gov/parks.

Game and Parks suggests tips for safe ice fishing

Stay safe this winter while enjoying a day of ice fishing. Follow these tips from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission for safety on the ice:

• The minimum ice thickness for supporting one person is at least 4 inches of clear, solid ice.
• Drill holes or use an ice chisel or spud bar to check the ice conditions while working your way out to your fishing spot.
• Wear a life jacket.
• Avoid falls by wearing ice cleats on your boots to maintain traction.
• Layer your clothing, beginning with a synthetic layer. Wool garments provide excellent insulation and maintain warmth even when damp. Outer layers may include sweatshirts and jackets covered by heavy parkas, bibs or coveralls. Carry at least a couple pairs of gloves or mittens. Remove layers during periods of activity, such as manually drilling ice holes, to avoid sweating, and add layers back on during periods of inactivity.
• Commercial or homemade ice picks should be worn around your neck in case you fall through and need something to grip the ice and pull yourself out.
• Have some extra dry clothes in your vehicle.
• Fish with others in case trouble arises.
• Have a long rope with you so someone can rescue you if you break through the ice.
• Before heading out, tell a family member or friend where you will be fishing.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages. These affect your judgment and increase your chances for hypothermia.

Fishing permits can be purchased at OutdoorNebraska.gov.