photo courtesy of Mike Rabbe

Around 80% of the world's population of Sandhill Cranes (Grus canadensis) migrate through the Platte River valley of Nebraska each spring between February and April, although they no longer nest in the state. The area along the Platte between Kearney and Grand Island is a vital resting place for the birds. During the day they forage for kernels of corn and insects in fields near the river. They often pause from feeding to "dance" in pairs and groups. At night they roost on submerged sandbars.

Back to Wetland Birds