Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Unaudited) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2011	Oct. 31, 2010	Oct. 31, 2011	Oct. 31, 2010
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Net earnings (loss)	$ (35,282)	$ (46,581)	$ 103,772	$ 82,408
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Unrealized net losses on investment securities	(8)	(16)	(10)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(93)	155	50	21
Unrealized net losses on interest rate derivative contracts	(8,457)	(7,929)	(19,288)	(31,426)
Total other comprehensive loss, net of tax	(8,558)	(7,790)	(19,248)	(31,405)
Comprehensive income (loss)	(43,840)	(54,371)	84,524	51,003
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest	(2,749)	(168)	(87,142)	(21,845)
Total comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Forest City Enterprises, Inc.	$ (46,589)	$ (54,539)	$ (2,618)	$ 29,158