Sandhill Crane

A Sandhill Crane (Antigone canadensis) is a large, tall bird known for its gray plumage, bright red forehead, and impressive migratory journeys. They are one of the oldest living bird species, with fossils dating back over two million years.

The Sandhill Crane has a long neck, long legs, and a slender body. Its plumage is a slate-gray color, sometimes stained a reddish-brown by iron-rich mud. The most distinctive feature is a bald, bright red patch of skin on its forehead and crown. They have a long, dark bill and a wingspan that can reach over 6 feet.

Sandhill Cranes are found in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, grasslands, and marshes. They are found across North America, from the Arctic tundra to northern Mexico. They are omnivores that forage for food on the ground. Their diet consists of grains, berries, small rodents, and insects.

These cranes are known for their spectacular courtship dances, which involve bowing, head-bobbing, and leaping into the air. They are highly social and form large flocks, especially during their biannual migrations. One of the most famous migration routes is over the Platte River in Nebraska, where millions of cranes gather in spring before continuing their journey north.