Located within the rolling hills of southeastern Nebraska, Fontenelle Forest offers a unique and immersive experience for wildlife enthusiasts. As one of the largest remaining contiguous hardwood forests in the region, this vast 2,100-acre preserve is teeming with an incredible array of native plant and animal species. The forest's diverse landscape, comprising dense woods, prairies, and streams, creates an ideal setting for observing a wide variety of wildlife, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.

One of the primary draws for wildlife enthusiasts is the forest's rich avifauna. Over 200 species of birds have been documented within the forest's boundaries, with many being year-round residents. During the spring and fall migratory seasons, visitors can witness an extraordinary spectacle as numerous species make their way through the forest. Notable sightings have included the rare Whooping Crane, American Golden-Plover, and Peregrine Falcon. The forest's unique Acacia trees, such as the Kentucky Coffee Tree and the Bur Oak, provide essential habitat for a variety of bird species, including the endangered Acadian Flycatcher.

Beyond its birds, Fontenelle Forest is also home to a diverse array of mammals. White-tailed deer, American River Otters, and Bobcats are commonly spotted, with the latter being particularly prized among wildlife enthusiasts. Rare sightings of the Eastern Forest bats have also been documented within the forest, with scientists employing advanced tracking methods to monitor the nocturnal species. Visitors are often surprised by the unique adaptations of these mammals, such as the Eastern Chipmunk's ability to collect and store seeds for winter sustenance.

Visitors to the forest can also engage in observation of reptiles and amphibians. Snakes such as the Timber Rattlesnake, Eastern Hognose, and Red-eared Slider turtles are all commonly spotted in the forest, particularly during warmer months. Guests have also reported encounters with several frog species, including the Wood Frog and the Cope's Gray Tree Frog. By visiting the forest's ponds, lakes, and streams, wildlife enthusiasts can capture a glimpse of these aquatic species.

Conservation efforts are also a vital aspect of Fontenelle Forest. Several programs are in place to protect and restore the forest's delicate ecosystem, including measures to promote biodiversity, provide habitat for endangered species, and preserve old-growth forests. Visitors are encouraged to participate in such efforts, either by attending educational programs or participating in volunteer activities.

In recognition of its exceptional biodiversity and ecological importance, Fontenelle Forest has been recognized as a National Audubon Society Important Bird Area and has also been designated as an International Dark Sky Park.

Guided nature hikes and educational workshops are available year-round to provide wildlife enthusiasts with an immersive experience of the forest's vast ecosystem. Rangers and conservationists are on-hand to impart their knowledge of the forest's unique species and provide essential insights into the broader conservation context.

Fontenelle Forest is essentially an accessible natural wonderland approximately 20 miles (32 kilometers) south of Omaha, along with Fontenelle Forest Nature Center which is the starting point of trails leading into the forest, enabling exploration of Fontenelle forests diverse and often preserved area.
Those prepared to meander to observe, note species detail are richly rewarded.