Just got back from taking Emily to school. She goes to Wells, just south of the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge. We stopped there in the morning before heading down to the college and got a big surprise!
Sandhill Cranes
Surely didn’t expect such a thing. Here is their range map from Cornell:
Since I live in Western New York, and Montezuma is east of me, I did not expect to see this bird! (Click the map to go to the Cornell site and learn about this beautiful bird.)
A surprise, indeed! We used to see them in Michigan where I grew up, but never out here in eastern NY where I’ve lived for nearly 40 years. But that Montezuma refuge is quite a place. I’ll bet the birds have spread the word that here’s a habitat for all.
Congrats on the sighting! I think they might breed there in small numbers.
They have been nesting in our area the past 2-3 year…about 5 pairs. Their range is changing for sure.
Great sighting! They’re pretty common overwintering in California’s central valley, and are always a treat to behold!
Nice sighting! Sandhills aren’t common around here either, though i’ve encountered a few in Lancaster Co. and elsewhere nearby every now and again. Yours is a great sighting! Mine are usually pretty far away.
Carolyn H.
That is cool!!
We have one or two that come to NH and have for the past several years.
They are a spectacular bird!
Sue
No kidding. I know one of the professors at Wells. A beatuiful area to be sure. Too bad the whooping cranes are not nearly as successful as the sandhill.
That is so cool, Jen! I love watching these big beautiful creatures. I love how they “come in for a landing.” They are so graceful looking (in the air) like a glider without an engine. I guess that’s why I enjoy going to New Mexico each fall for the Festival of the Cranes. Between the cranes and the snow geese flying in and out, it makes for a vacation to behold. But I also enjoy seeing the cranes in various fields while they are feeding. I also love how family oriented these birds are. So, congrats on your new lifer!