These gorgeous birds are increasing in some parts of their range. They mate for life. In many cultures cranes symbolize longevity and loyalty.
To see a range map and learn a lot of basic natural history information about it, see
The easiest time to see an abundance of cranes is during migration. Anywhere between Kearney and Grand Island, Nebraska, during March and early April, can be great: the Rowe Sanctuary in Kearney is ideal. Resources for learning where to bird in Nebraska are available from the American Birding Association. The cranes arrive and depart from their night roosts in very dim light, where binoculars with a good exit pupil are very useful. During daytime, when they're feeding in cornfields, a good spotting scope can be essential.
In most places during the breeding season, cranes are usually best viewed with a spotting scope, because they tend to keep their distance. In areas of Florida, Sandhill Cranes are backyard birds, wandering fairly close to people, who can see them with binoculars or even with the naked eye.
