Sandhill Cranes

About this time of year people begin to hear a strange sound in the sky, and look up to see a large flock flying in a 'V' formation. Many assume that it is geese, but they could be mistaken. Sandhill Cranes are currently on the move! They migrate every year from the Southern part of Canada, and Northern United States to the warmer climes of the Deep South. The population of Sandhill Cranes East of the Mississippi stop to gather at the Jasper Pulaski Forest Preserve in Indiana. They average around 16k cranes in one field, with records of 30k. The population West of the Mississippi gather at the Rowe Sanctuary in Gibbon, Nebraska. The numbers there are more than double. These migration routes are called 'Flyways'. These highways in the sky have existed for hundreds of years. The yearly migration is truly one of the natural wonders of the world, and one you should try to see at least once in your life. 
Photo credits: Doug White