Once extirpated from south western Ontario in the 1920’s, the sandhill crane population has begun to recover, and their return to this region is something to celebrate.  Especially when one considers that 10 million year old fossils, structurally identical to the sandhill crane, were recently found, making it the oldest known bird species still surviving.

 

For those fortunate enough to witness the courtship displays of the sandhill crane, the experience is unforgettable.  One glimpse of this show, with its dancing, bowing, leaping and awe inspiring duets, is sure to make you fall in love with these shy survivors.

 

Standing over a metre in height, sandhill cranes are surprisingly secretive! Their red crowns are often the only sign of this private nester, who builds its bulky nest amid the cover of cattails and close to the water.  In flight, they are easily recognized by the large black tips on their wings, quick upstroke, slower down stroke, and extended neck. These tall, long legged visitors produce flowing, bugle-like calls, garooooooo which can often be heard here during dawn or dusk.  Wetland restoration practices and the availability of food via agricultural crops has helped re-establish sandhill crane populations to this region.