Birding Hotspots for Spring Sandhill Crane Migration

Most birders are familiar with the sounds of a passing flock of sandhill cranes during migration. Many of us have seen them fly right over our house. Unfortunately, they are typically high up and the view isn’t great. There are spring birding hotspots, however, where you can find thousands of sandhill cranes staging before and during their migration to their breeding grounds in the spring. Here are some of the best hotspots for sandhill crane migration.

Courtesy Cathy Bruha/Country magazine

1. Sandhill Crane Migration Nebraska: Platte River

The Platte River is famous for incredible numbers of sandhill cranes. During five weeks each spring, about 500,000 sandhill cranes pass through the area! You may also see whooping cranes. For those who can’t visit in person, this year there are virtual options including Rowe Sanctuary’s virtual crane cam. For more information on this area, visit the Nebraska Game and Parks website. Learn more secrets about bird migration.

Courtesy Jim Dunn

2. Sandhill Crane Migration Indiana: Goose Pond FWA

Goose Pond Fish & Wildlife Area in southern Indiana hosts a large numbers of sandhill cranes in migration each spring as well as a festival to celebrate them, Marsh Madness, during early March. Don’t worry if you miss the festival, plenty of cranes will still be around through the middle of March. Learn more about bird migration patterns and bird flyways.

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3. Sandhill Crane Migration New Mexico: Bosque del Apache NWR

Bosque del Apache national wildlife refuge in New Mexico is well-known for its wintering population of sandhill cranes. Bird-watchers even host a great birding festival to celebrate them, Festival of the Cranes. In addition to thousands of sandhill cranes, you can also see amazing numbers of snow geese in the area. Learn how to start birding beyond the backyard.