Cranes, with their striking presence and distinctive calls, are indeed found in Michigan. These large, elegant birds are a notable part of the state’s diverse wildlife, often seen in various natural and agricultural landscapes. For those interested in observing these magnificent creatures, Michigan offers ample opportunities to witness them throughout much of the year.
Michigan’s Crane Residents
Michigan is home to two crane species. The Sandhill Crane, Antigone canadensis, is the prevalent crane species across Michigan’s marshes, fields, and wetlands, particularly abundant in the Lower Peninsula. These birds are seasonal residents, arriving in early spring and remaining through late fall. They are recognized for their stately appearance, smooth gray plumage that can sometimes appear rust-colored from mud staining, and a distinctive red patch on their crown.
The Whooping Crane, Grus americana, is an endangered species and a much rarer sight in Michigan. Whooping Cranes are notably taller, standing at nearly five and a half feet, and are distinguished by their all-white plumage with black-tipped wings. While occasional sightings occur, often mixed within Sandhill Crane flocks, they are not a regular part of Michigan’s avian landscape as the Sandhill Crane is.
Where and When to Spot Cranes
Cranes in Michigan can be found in various habitats, including open wetlands, marshes, and agricultural fields. They also frequent open grasslands and bogs, seeking shallow water for nesting and foraging. Cranes arrive from their wintering grounds in late February or March.
Nesting occurs in April and May, making these months important for observing breeding pairs. The best time to witness large numbers of cranes is during their fall migration, from October through November, when thousands gather before heading south. Specific locations like the Phyllis Haehnle Memorial Sanctuary near Jackson and the Bernard W. Baker Sanctuary in Bellevue are well-known staging areas. Cranes are most active and visible in fields during the early morning or just before sunset as they forage and return to their roosting sites.
Recognizing Cranes by Sight and Sound
Identifying Sandhill Cranes involves observing several physical characteristics. They are large birds, standing between three and four feet tall, with long legs and long necks. Their wingspan can range from 5.5 to 7.5 feet, making them impressive in flight. A featherless red patch on their forehead and white cheeks are also key identifiers. In flight, Sandhill Cranes hold their necks straight, which contrasts with the S-curve neck of herons.
The vocalizations of Sandhill Cranes are highly distinctive and often heard before the birds are seen. They produce a loud, rattling bugle call that can carry for up to 2.5 miles. This trumpeting sound is amplified by their unique anatomy, as their long trachea coils into their sternum, creating a lower pitch and rich harmonics. Mated pairs often engage in a synchronized “unison calling” duet. Beyond their calls, Sandhill Cranes are known for their elaborate dancing displays, which involve bowing, leaping, and wing spreading, serving to strengthen pair bonds and express territoriality.
The Status of Michigan’s Crane Populations
The Sandhill Crane population in Michigan represents a successful conservation story. Once nearly extirpated from the state, with only an estimated 17 pairs remaining in southern Michigan in 1931, their numbers have significantly rebounded. By 2011, Michigan’s Sandhill Crane population was estimated at 20,000 individuals, contributing to an Eastern Population of 72,000 cranes.
This recovery is largely attributed to wetland protection and habitat restoration efforts, along with the removal of hunting pressure. Sanctuaries like Bernard Baker and Phyllis Haehnle have played a role by providing protected breeding and staging habitats. While the population growth rate was once substantial, it has shown signs of stabilizing, indicating that these birds have successfully re-established themselves within the state’s ecosystems. Ongoing monitoring efforts continue to track their numbers and ensure their sustained presence.