Sandhill Cranes – The Last Great Animal Migration in America

Every year, over half a million sandhill cranes converge on a 75 million stretch of the Platte River in Nebraska. It is a layover on the migration to their breeding grounds in Canada, Alaska, and Siberia.  They come from their wintering grounds in Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and Northern Mexico.
 
Kearny, Nebraska is right in the middle of the migration confluence.  At night, the birds roost together in large numbers on the Platte River sandbars.  The sandbars provide safety from predators. 
 
I reserved a blind along the river – about 30 yards from a sandbar.  The blind is part of the Iain Nicolson Audubon Center at Rowe Sanctuary.  The sanctuary is 3,000 acres with 5 miles of river channel.
 
An overnight stay in a blind is quite an adventure.  You are there before the cranes decided to come in for the evening. Then you are ready before sunrise to observe and photograph.  I estimated about 10,000 cranes on the sandbars near me.  It was really something to try and sleep overnight with 10,000 cackling guests!
 
They take off in the morning – generally in a couple waves.  When you see 3,000 – 4,000 cranes take off at the same time – it is a wonder they do not all collide.
 
It is a tremendous experience for the adventurous.  However, it is not without difficulties.  The last time it snowed about 8 inches with strong winds.  So, if you are in the mind for an adventure – please be prepared!
 
Prints Available:
This Sandhill Crane shot is now available as a fine art print in multiple sizes.  Printed on premium archival paper, it will bring a natural presence to your space.