How to observe Sand Hill Cranes

Sand hill Cranes are exceptionally beautiful birds. They are grey with red and black plumage on their heads. They are very protective of their young and at times can be aggressive. The incubation period is usually between 28 and 32 days with a clutch of two.

The cranes in these pictures are our neighborhood residents. They were even spotted during the hurricanes of 2005 and 2006 basking in the grass without a care in the world.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. 
    
   Local Sandhill Crane on morning tour of neighborhood

   The best time to observe the cranes is early morning to mid morning. If they have a clutch they will be out with them. The Young are born brown with white marking

2. 
    
   Feeding time by the lake with young

   Always keep your distance. They will charge at anything if they feel threatened.

3. 
    
   Adult Sandhill Crane

   Do not feed them. They are not domesticated animals and can be very aggressive in nature.

[DUSTYMILLS]

on 7/25/2008 How lucky you are to have such beautiful birds in your neighborhood! Your pics are terrific.....

[vallain]

on 7/23/2008 I appreciate your article calling peoples' attention to these wonderful birds. You might enjoy my photos of them with a baby (posted on Webshots).
http://good-times.webshots.com/album/562666607bTJGBA

[3-Point]

on 6/28/2008 Great article. Thanks

[luv2blog]

on 6/28/2008 Thanks

[amylaine]

on 6/27/2008 Got to love those birds