Sticking Together Like Birds of a Feather: The Migration of Sandhill Cranes 

As fall arrives in Park City, we begin to see an incredible sight unfold in the sky above. With their distinctive red crowns and prehistoric calls, flocks of sandhill cranes embark on an extraordinary migratory journey to their southern wintering grounds. This migration spans thousands of miles and showcases their incredible endurance and navigational skills.  

Sandhill cranes are one of the oldest bird species, dating back millions of years. Each year, as winter approaches, they migrate from their northern breeding grounds to the warmer climates of the southern United States and Mexico. Departing from Park City often in late September or early October, Swaner’s sandhill cranes make their way down to areas like Bosque del Apache in New Mexico. This year, we will see pairs of cranes with their colts born at Swaner migrate for the first time, adding to the marvel of their journey. Migrating is essential for their survival as it leads them to find suitable habitats that offer abundant food sources and safe roosting spots for the winter. 

Before migrating, family units of sandhill cranes join with other families and non-breeders, forming loose roosting and feeding flocks that can range in numbers. When migrating, they will form large flocks and utilize thermal currents to soar at altitudes of up to 12,000 feet. Their V-shaped flight formations allow them to conserve energy and communicate to stay together throughout the long journey. Cranes take turns leading the group, sharing the hard work of flying among them. 

But how do cranes know when to migrate? Environmental cues trigger the cranes' migration. As temperatures begin to fall and the days grow shorter, these birds sense the change in season. These cues are vital as they help to signal that it’s time to leave their summer homes and head towards more temperate climates. 

Much like travelers on a long road trip stopping at gas stations to refuel their cars and grab a snack, the cranes make stops during their migration where they can rest and refuel their bodies. These locations, including wetlands, agricultural fields, and shallow rivers along their route, offer a diverse array of essential resources necessary for them to continue their journey and reach their destination. Swaner Preserve is a great stopover spot for migratory birds, especially for our sandhill crane friends. 

These birds display remarkable adaptability and resilience during their migratory journey, navigating vast distances despite challenges like changing weather patterns and human disturbances. With instincts developed over millions of years, they adapt to different environments, find suitable habitats, and overcome obstacles along the way. Their annual migration showcases nature's resilience, illustrating how life perseveres despite adversity. 

The sandhill cranes' migration also reflects nature's intricate rhythms and timing. They respond to changing seasons and environmental cues each year with great accuracy. Their journey highlights the connection between all living things and the great life cycle of nature.  

Although the sandhill cranes may be leaving soon, you can still appreciate their beauty at Swaner Preserve & EcoCenter’s current exhibition, Beauty and the Beaks, now until December 1, 2024. This photography exhibition will show visitors the dynamic landscapes of Swaner Preserve and majesty of the sandhill cranes who call it home. Breathtaking photographs and hands-on interactives reveal the science and splendor of the Preserve and the cranes who thrive here. Fun for all ages! 

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Sticking Together Like Birds of a Feather: The Migration of Sandhill Cranes

As fall arrives in Park City, we begin to see an incredible sight unfold in the sky above. With their distinctive red crowns and prehistoric calls, flocks of sandhill cranes embark on an extraordinary migratory journey to their southern wintering grounds.

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