Sandhill Crane Jesperson Dyke

[Chris]

I was out biking in the afternoon and there was a Sandhill Crane among a small flock of Swans just west of the Jesperson Dyke parking area. Not overly rare but we don't get too many spring sightings. Among the flock was a lone Greater White-fronted Goose.

Also had a Shrike on my ride as well. Getting late for them. Did check to ensure it wasn't a Loggerhead Shrike!

[kenneth2019]

I heard an unidentified bird at the Hope Airport that made the Juncos and Robins hide. Merlin Sound suggested Loggerhead Shrike, but alas, I could not see any bird that fit the calls.

[Chris]

The crane and goose were among, what I assume, the same flock of swans. Interesting to see them traveling with the swans.

[Chris]

While biking out there again, there were four Sandhill Cranes! They can be tough to see in the field when they are resting.

[gabi]

Yes. I spotted 4 of them too! Nice

[Arden]

They were still there this morning but by themselves in the field just south of the parking area. The Swans were in the field west of Jesperson Road. We got some dancing and prancing and flapping displays this morning, which was cool to see.

Sandhill Crane by Arden Powell, on Flickr

[Chris]

As of yesterday the Cranes and the GWFG were still present. Only 22 swans left.

I am surprised they stayed for this long.

[Arden]

I was out on the Jesperson dyke trail last night (Apr 22nd) and the 4 cranes were still in the field south and east of the dyke. Good views again before they flew off.

[Chris]

Thanks for posting. I was out there again biking and thoroughly checked the field and saw five. I've been checking the muddy part of the field but they were on the grassy part.

The cranes took off flying north.

[Gord]

Great photo, Arden!

I wonder if the fifth was the one I saw yesterday? It was quite vocal so not surprised it would have been happy to have found company.