How many ducks actually use the Platte River?
GRAND ISLAND, Neb. – Oct. 1, 2013 – Waterfowl hunting along the Platte River is a long and storied tradition, with some of the largest winter mallard harvests occurring on the Platte each year. Through midwinter counts, we now know that thousands of birds visit the river for short periods before continuing their journey south in the fall. Along the North Platte, certain areas over-winter mallards and geese that will not travel any farther south. When spring arrives and these birds begin their journey north to the prairie breeding grounds, they must be in top condition to ensure nest success. With Nebraska being one of the last stops before the Dakotas and Canada, it is critical to understand where, what type and how much habitat the state needs to ensure strong waterfowl populations.
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