The sandhill crane is a large, majestic bird that makes an epic migration each year from its wintering grounds in the southern United States and Mexico to its breeding grounds in the northern United States and Canada. Hundreds of thousands of sandhill cranes stop along the Platte River in central Nebraska for several weeks in March and early April, making it one of the world’s greatest wildlife spectacles. Viewing these huge flocks of cranes as they feed and rest along the Platte River before continuing their journey north has become a popular spring wildlife watching event that attracts visitors from across the country and around the world.
When do sandhill cranes migrate through Nebraska?
Sandhill cranes typically start arriving in Nebraska in late February and remain in the state until early or mid-April. The peak migration period when the highest numbers of cranes stop over in the Platte River valley is generally from mid-March to early April. During the peak, it’s estimated that around 500,000 to 600,000 sandhill cranes are present along an 80 mile stretch of the Platte River in central Nebraska. This represents about 80 percent of the world’s population of sandhill cranes!
The exact timing of the migration varies a bit year to year depending on weather conditions. Mild weather may cause the migration to start a little earlier, while severe winter weather in the northern plains can delay the cranes’ departure from their southern wintering grounds. However, on average, the staging timeline is:
– Late February: First groups of cranes arrive
– Early March: Numbers increase to around 100,000 cranes
– Mid-March: Peak migration begins, numbers rapidly increase
– Late March to Early April: Peak migration period, largest flocks present
– Mid-April: Most cranes have departed for breeding grounds
Where are the best places to see sandhill cranes in Nebraska?
The two main areas to observe sandhill cranes along the Platte River are between the cities of Grand Island and Kearney, and between Kearney and North Platte further west. Here are some of the most popular and productive crane viewing sites in these areas:
Grand Island to Kearney
– Rowe Sanctuary near Gibbon – This National Audubon Society sanctuary has blinds along the river available via lottery.
– Platte River Road – A gravel road running parallel to the river with multiple pullouts. Located south of Alda between Highway 30 and Shelton.
– Mormon Island Crane Meadows – Nature Conservancy area with a handicap accessible blind. Southwest of Grand Island near Highway 281.
– Fort Kearney State Recreation Area – State park with river access and crane viewing from hiking trails. Southeast of Kearney along the river.
Kearney to North Platte
– Iain Nicolson Audubon Center – Rowe Sanctuary operated site with blinds accessible via lottery. Located east of Highway 183 between Kearney and North Platte.
– Hershey Road – Gravel road near highway 83 with pull offs. Runs parallel to Platte River southwest of Hershey.
– Jeffrey Canyon Viewing Area – Platforms operated by Nebraska Public Power District southeast of Brady along Jeffrey Reservoir.
– Kingsley Dam – Large impoundment operated by Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District, cranes gather to roost. North of Ogallala.
Best times of day to see the cranes
The daily routines of the cranes along the Platte River generally follow distinct patterns, making certain times of day better than others for observing large flocks of cranes. Here are some tips on planning around their schedules:
Early Morning
Shortly after sunrise, cranes begin leaving their overnight roosting sites on the river and fly out to surrounding fields where they spend the day foraging. Excellent time to observe large groups of cranes flying in the morning light. Listen for their unique trumpeting calls.
Mid Morning
Cranes disperse to feed in fields and are more scattered. Fewer flocks are present along the river at this time of day.
Late Afternoon
In late afternoon, cranes start funneling back to the river from feeding areas for their overnight roost. Another chance to see large flocks and evening fly-ins. Get positioned 1-2 hours before sunset for the best action.
Sunset
A spectacular time to watch cranes return to the river against colorful sunset skies. Crane silhouettes and flyby views create great photo opportunities. The hour around sunset often peaks with fly-in activity.
Early Morning (next day)
The cycle repeats! Sunrise watch along the river is another excellent window to observe cranes leaving roosts and flying out to feed first thing in the morning.
Best weather conditions
Weather conditions can significantly impact crane activity and visibility for viewing. Here are some weather factors to consider:
– Clear to partly cloudy skies – Best for viewing flying cranes during sunrise and sunset times.
– Light winds – Cranes are more active flying to and from roosts with light winds. Strong winds ground more flocks and reduce fly-ins.
– Warm temperatures – Cranes are more active on warmer spring days. Very cold conditions may keep more cranes roosted on the river.
– Dry weather – Rain or snow tends to limit crane flight activity. Dry weather produces better viewing conditions.
– Avoid extreme heat, cold or wind if possible. The most comfortable weather will provide the most ideal viewing experience.
Where to stay and best viewing locations
The high density of sandhill cranes concentrated along the narrow Platte River valley creates excellent opportunities to observe these unique birds, though accommodations can fill up during the peak migration period. If planning a trip, book lodging well in advance. Some options include:
Grand Island
Larger town with more lodging, restaurants and other services. Easy access to Mormon Island Crane Meadows and Fort Kearney. Can serve as base for accessing all viewing areas.
Kearney
Another lodging option located centrally between the east and west viewing areas. Close to Fort Kearney and Rowe Sanctuary.services.
Camping
Campgrounds along the river and at state recreation areas. Limited spots, so reserve early. Camping provides sunrise to sunset viewing access.
Bed & Breakfasts
Smaller, scenic lodging options. Many cater to crane watchers with packages. Check Gibbon, Shelton, Wood River, Alda and other Platte River towns.
Wildlife Viewing Tours
Guided tours that take you to the cranes by vans or buses. Convenient way to see the migration with an expert guide. Reserve a spot early.
For the front row view of sandhill cranes along the Platte River, scout access points during the day, then return well before sunset to set up for the evening fly-in. Bring binoculars, lawn chairs, and warm clothes for the show. With ideal timing and weather conditions, your Nebraska crane watching experience will create lasting memories.
Conclusion
In summary, the peak viewing period for sandhill crane migration through Nebraska is from mid-March to early April. The cranes concentrate along an 80 mile stretch of the Platte River between Grand Island and North Platte, with Rowe Sanctuary and Mormon Island among the most popular viewing sites. The best viewing times are early morning and late afternoon when the cranes fly between the river and surrounding fields. Light winds, warm temps and clear skies create ideal conditions. With hundreds of thousands of cranes funneling through the Platte River valley, it’s an unforgettable spring wildlife spectacle, especially in the hour around sunset when columns of cranes return to the river to roost for the night.