Sand-hill cranes are quite plentifully in central Florida. They can be found in large flocks in large fields foraging for food.

During breeding the become very protective of the young chicks. The young Sand-Hill cranes are brown and they start out so tiny. It is amazing to watch the family together. Most of the times there are three per family. Mom, Dad and one chick. I have seen two chicks in a family but only once.

This is yet another bird who’s population is threatened by habitat loss. Local building of houses and shopping centers has taken most of this bird’s habitat. In the southeast United States their numbers are dwindling. The Mississippi Sand-Hill Crane National Wild life Refuge was established in 1975 to safeguard the endangered Mississippi Sand Hill crane and it’s unique environment.

I happened to be lucky enough to be visited by a family of 3 one day.

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