Sandhill Cranes
One of nature's greatest displays occurs each spring along Nebraska's Platte River. As winter comes to an end, over 500,000 Sandhill Cranes gather along the Platte River to feed and gain strength before continuing their spring migration to their breeding territories. Sandhill Cranes may go as far north as Alaska and some have even been reported in Eastern Siberia.
During the day the cranes spread out to feed on local farm fields. The most spectacular time can be early morning. Just as dawn begins to break the cranes will start to call and rise up through the early morning fog. The sites and sounds are awe inspiring.
Visit the bird guide to learn more about Sandhill Cranes and to hear their mighty call!
At night, the cranes return to roost on submerged sandbars; the shallow waters of the Platte providing security from predators.
Audubon's Rowe Sanctuary and National Geographic have teamed up to provide a Crane Cam, to allow anyone to get a taste of what it is like to be in the middle of the Sandhill Cranes. The best time to view the Crane Cam is early in the morning, just at sunrise, or in the evening as the cranes return to roost.