Bird Facts Friday

Sandhill Crane Facts

Sandhill Crane standing in park

Description: Sandhill Cranes are large, tall birds with long necks, long legs, and very broad wings. Their body has gray plumage with a red, rusty patch of feathers on their forehead.

Regions: Sandhill Cranes may or may not be migratory, depending on the subpopulation. Most Sandhill Cranes do migrate and spend winters in Texas, California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Mexico. In spring they can be found migrating to Nebraska, Minnesota, Michigan, Wisconsin, Oregon, Idaho, and even Alaska. They prefer to breed and forage in open prairies, grasslands, wetlands.

Behavior: Sandhill Cranes eat primarily plants and grains, but are known to be opportunistic feeders. They will change their diet based on what food is available. Insects and snails may make the menu if the need arises.

Main problems: The Sandhill Crane can cause crop damage.  They eat planted seeds especially corn. In some areas, Sandhill Cranes have become habituated with humans due to food handouts. Cranes may become aggressive when they are defending their young.

Sandhill Cranes are one of the oldest living birds. A Sandhill Crane fossil was found in Florida that is estimated to be 2.5 million years old.

Sandhill Cranes love the Platte River in Nebraska. During migration, upwards of 75% of migrating Sandhill Cranes can be found in a 75-mile stretch along this river from February until early April.

Sandhill Cranes can live up to 20 years and do not start breeding until they are 2 to 7 years old.

Sandhill Cranes are known for “dancing” during mating season. There is typically wing-flapping, bowing, and jumping involved in these courtship dances.

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