The sandhill crane count has shown growth over the years. In 2024, 412 cranes were counted in 32 counties. In 2023, there were 357 in 30 counties, 311 in 2022 across 26 counties and just 160 in ...

The sandhill crane is a striking creature, with its signature red crown and wingspan of more than six feet. Once driven to teeteringly low numbers, the species is now a conservation success story.

Sandhill cranes, which can stand up to 4 feet tall and have a wingspan of 6 to 8 feet, made their migratory trek to winter in the Valley.

Crane Trust Nature and Visitor’s Center near Alda: cranetrust.org or call 308-382-1820. Iain Nicolson Audubon Center at Rowe Sanctuary near Gibbon: rowe.audubon.org or call 308-468-5282.