JASPER PULASKI FISH & WILDLIFE AREA — The International Crane Foundation (ICF) has announced the return of its annual Sandhill Crane Saturdays, a weekly educational event celebrating one of North America’s most spectacular wildlife migrations.
Led by ICF Assistant Outreach Biologist Mary Callaghan and foundation staff, the recurring event will take place every Saturday from October 17 through December 19, 2026 (excluding Halloween on October 31 and Thanksgiving weekend on November 28) at the Jasper-Pulaski Fish & Wildlife Area in Pulaski County.
Event Details & Public Participation
During the migratory season, representatives from the International Crane Foundation will be stationed at the Sandhill Crane Observation Tower. Visitors of all ages are invited to ask questions, learn about crane ecology, and view the massive flocks as they return to the refuge grounds at dusk.
- Dates: Saturdays, October 17 – December 19, 2026 (Excludes Oct. 31 & Nov. 28)
- Location: Sandhill Crane Observation Area, 5353 County Road 1650, West Medaryville, IN
- Cost: Free and open to the public
- Recommended Gear: Warm layers, binoculars, or high-power spotting scopes
Indiana’s Role in the Eastern Sandhill Crane Migration
Jasper-Pulaski Fish & Wildlife Area plays a vital ecological role as a key stopover point along the migratory flyway for the Eastern Population of Sandhill Cranes.
Each autumn, tens of thousands of cranes migrate south from breeding grounds in Canada, Michigan, and Wisconsin. Jasper-Pulaski’s shallow marshes and surrounding agricultural fields provide an essential habitat for the birds to rest and feed. Peak population numbers at the refuge typically reach their highest concentration between mid-November and early December, with counts routinely exceeding 10,000 to 15,000 birds on a single day.
In addition to Sandhill Cranes, sharp-eyed visitors attending the Saturday sessions may also have the rare opportunity to spot Endangered Whooping Cranes that occasionally travel alongside the migrating flocks.
Viewing Tips for Visitors
- Best Viewing Time: Crane activity peaks near sunset when thousands of birds return to the refuge’s roosting marshes from surrounding feeding fields.
- Accessibility: The Sandhill Crane Observation Area features a fully accessible viewing tower equipped with stationary scopes.
For more information regarding the International Crane Foundation’s work or event details, visitors can visit the official ICF website or contact property staff at Jasper-Pulaski Fish & Wildlife Area.
