Last June, while visiting the Lamar Valley in Yellowstone National Park, I watched this Sandhill Crane family stroll across a meadow in rapt silence. I took these pictures through my spotting scope with my phone.
We saw another Sandhill Crane family at this exact same spot three years ago. It’s right next to a pond. According to All About Birds, “Breeders gravitate toward the edges between wetland and upland habitats.” Yup, a perfect description of this site.
Sandhills perform elaborate courting dances and mate for life. Dances include bowing, jumping, and spreading the wings.
They nest in or near wetlands and construct their nests from nearby vegetation such as cattails. Sandhill Cranes lay 1-3 eggs in their nests. Their young are called “colts” and they stay with their parents until they are 9-10 months old.
Ragtag Daily Prompt (RDP) – Rapt
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Interesting birds. Most cranes have mating dances and many species mate for life. Seems to be something that most cranes do
Yes, they are interesting birds. I didn't know other cranes also mated for life.
How lovely to see these little ones! I would never have guessed they would be called colts - I was about to refer to them as chicks until I saw your remark :D
Yeah, the colts are so cute, Sarah! They grow up fast.
Such great photos of truly elusive birds!
Thanks, Lindy! I was glad to see them.
Is there really any other sight that brings as much joy as a colt out with its parents - so fun to watch the parents teach them how to hunt for food.
They are definitely fun to watch. I'm so glad I got to see new little ones in the exact same spot I've seen them before.
I love spotting Sandhill Cranes. They are majestic. We are lucky enough to see them in Madison.
Yes, they are majestic birds. I love their calls. It's one of my favorite bird sounds.