The Birding Industry: Part One

From our friends with Nebraska Travel and Tourism:

Sandhill cranes are landing in central Nebraska

One of the great spectacles of the natural world – the migration of 650,000 Sandhill cranes – has begun. From March through mid-April, these birds from ancient lineage will fill the skies over central Nebraska. By day, the huge grey clouds of birds forage over and on Nebraska cropland. Come dusk, they swoop into the Platte River valley, where they roost for the night.

"This migration has been occurring for tens of thousands of years and is truly an amazing sight to witness," said Bill Taddicken, director of the Audubon Society's Rowe Sanctuary east of Kearney. "For birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts in general, this is definitely a must-see event."

Bird enthusiasts from around the United States marvel at the sights and sounds of the migration. Sandhill cranes leap and flap in mating dances as they feast in the fields on insect larvae and corn left from the fall harvest. The birds are resting and recharging as they anticipate the climax of their long flight from Mexico and the southern United States to summer nesting areas in Alaska, northern Canada and Siberia. In all, 80 percent of the world's Sandhill cranes migrate through central Nebraska.

Crane watching doesn't require a lot of specialized equipment, but visitors, whether hiking or just observing, need to dress warmly. Layering is a good strategy to preserve body heat on the hike-bike trail and in viewing blinds, and don't forget warm headwear, socks, boots and gloves or mittens.

There are lots of opportunities to see the cranes: roadside parking sites, hike and bike trails and viewing sites and blinds at wildlife sanctuaries. (Read the rest of the release)