It's Cranemania around here!

[mobirdhunter]

Great photos—thanks! We saw quite a few on our recent trip to Wisconsin. Good to see so many.

[Wild Skies]

THE SANDHILLS ARE BACK, THE SANDHILLS ARE BACK, THE SANDHILLS ARE BACK!!

About 3 weeks later than their norm, nonetheless; they’re back for the umpteenth time of doing their thing — propagating their species and entertaining the neighborhood. Many things have crossed our minds for their delay in returning . . . could they have been shot, were they victims of the bird flu, did one or both of the mated pair die of old age or it could have been any number of the many challenges lurking in their world.

But, who cares? They’re back!

[Wild Skies]

Look at what just showed up for the 15th consecutive year!

Although they're nearly two weeks behind their usual show up date, they do have an excusable alibi -- 12 days ago our local area here in Northcentral Wisconsin received a record breaking 30.9" of snow in one 24 hour day. As of today, most of the snow has melted leaving just snowbanks and that in the shaded areas.

Last year's production of babies was nil, we'll see what 2026 brings us....

[mobirdhunter]

Thanks for the update! I actually saw a pair near our farm this past year. First time ever.