It’s Spring and the Sandhill Cranes are Back: Prepare to be Dazzled
By Julie Thomas, PhD
Nebraska’s most famous bird doesn’t even live here, though the Sandhill Crane — Nebraska’s State Migrating Bird — has been taking “spring break” here for millions of years as it travels from wintering-grounds in Texas to nesting-areas in Canada and Siberia.
The Sandhill Crane migration brings around 1,000,000 cranes to the Central Platte River area (mid-February to mid-April). While cranes are focused on resting and fueling-up for their remaining northbound journey, tourists are amazed by the magnitude of birds. While some tourists travel long distances for this “bucket list” opportunity, crane viewing can be a day-trip for Lincolnites. Why not pack-up the family, a pair of binoculars (if you have them), and a picnic lunch — and hit the road!
As you may know, Sandhill Cranes are large wading birds (4-foot tall, 6-foot wingspan). Males and females are identical in coloration, bond for life, and hatch 1-2 offspring per year. Young cranes stay with their parents until they reach sexual maturity (2 years). Look for these family groups of 2-4 birds within larger groups of cranes moving to and from surrounding fields (to feed during the day) and the sandbar/river areas (for safety at night). You might also notice cranes are dancers. They dance to communicate emotions (like stress, aggression) and to renew their pair bonds. Watch for jumps, bows, and kicks!
Julie Thomas, PhD, is a retired Science Educator and Research Professor Emerita from the University of Nebraska and a contributing writer for 55+.
These websites will link you to helpful videos, maps (crane viewing locations), guided tour options, and visitor center locations for trip planning.
Kearney Visitors Bureau
visitkearney.org/sandhill-cranes