WHEATFIELD—Nature enthusiasts and bird watchers have a unique opportunity to witness the spectacular sandhill crane migration this fall at the Jasper-Pulaski Fish & Wildlife Area (FWA).
The International Crane Foundation (ICF) is hosting “Sandhill Crane Saturdays” at the FWA’s dedicated Sandhill Crane Viewing Platform. ICF staff will be on hand every Saturday evening, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. ET, until December 13, 2025 (excluding Thanksgiving weekend).
During these hours, visitors can learn more about the massive flock of cranes as ICF experts will be available to answer questions about the birds and the migration. Attendees should also keep a sharp eye out for a rare sighting, as there is a chance to spot an endangered whooping crane among the migrating sandhills.
Best time to view
- Sunrise: Gigantic flocks rise and fly from their roosting marshes to feed in surrounding private land (agricultural fields). On their way to feed some birds, they stop in the open grassland areas of the refuge.
- Sunset: Beginning about one hour before sunset, flocks of cranes kite into the refuge near the observation area from all directions. They gab and socialize again before returning to roosting marshes at dusk.
While this is the cranes’ usual routine, it is important to remember they are wild animals and are not always predictable.
Attendees are reminded to dress appropriately for the weather to enjoy the autumn evenings at the viewing platform.
