Bird of the Week: Sandhill Crane

Often referred to by park visitors as a prehistoric bird, the Sandhill Crane is an exciting bird to spot while visiting the Metroparks. With their characteristic red marking on the crown of their head and stilt-like walking they are certainly a majestic bird to encounter. Sandhill Cranes are typically gray or slate colored with some rust colored markings on their underside. The Sandhill Cranes at Kensington Metropark have more rusty coloring than cranes found in other areas due to the high iron content in the water, when they clean their feathers the water stains the feather with a rusty hue. Their slender and sharp bill, growing longer than their head, provides good warning to keep a safe distance from them whenever you may encounter them in the park. Happy Birding!