Sandhill Cranes in the Recreation Area
/Eva and I were hiking near Haven Hill Lake and a small group of Sandhill Cranes flew right over our head towards Goose Meadow. Did you know that Sandhill Cranes have one of the longest fossil records of any living bird species on earth? A 2.5 million year old fossil has been found from one of these magnificent birds!
The cranes landed in the meadow and posed for my camera.
Although they can be found in farm fields and other open areas in Michigan, I think it's special that they choose the Highland Recreation Area as a place to feed and rest. Respect their privacy by staying a reasonable distance from them. They are wary and will walk away from you if you try to approach. If you're lucky you might see a mating dance - the large birds dance by leaping in the air! A special thing to see in the wild.
Get out into our Recreation Area and look for the Sandhill Cranes!
If you'd like to learn more... Wikipedia's information about the cranes is wonderful. Click HERE.
