I took my camera to the ranch this morning. I'm glad I did. There was a couple of Sandhill Cranes there.
Sandhill Cranes are a threatened species, and are few in number. There are less than 5,000 Florida Sandhill Cranes. Intentionally killing one could result in a fine of up to $50,000 and a year in prison.
According to Wikipedia, the Sandhill Crane is thought to be one of the oldest birds. They are confirmed to have lived 2.5 million years ago. They certainly sound prehistoric.
I got as close as I could, but they spooked and flew off.
Nope. I don't know how I got them in focus either.
These are tall birds. Adults can measure almost four feet tall. I love their bright red heads.
Sandhill Cranes are a threatened species, and are few in number. There are less than 5,000 Florida Sandhill Cranes. Intentionally killing one could result in a fine of up to $50,000 and a year in prison.
According to Wikipedia, the Sandhill Crane is thought to be one of the oldest birds. They are confirmed to have lived 2.5 million years ago. They certainly sound prehistoric.
I got as close as I could, but they spooked and flew off.
Nope. I don't know how I got them in focus either.
Even though sandhill cranes have been endangered, Kentucky is near the end of a 3-year "experimental hunting season" for them - and last year 97 were "taken." [Recently 2 whooping cranes were shot in Kentucky and they are EXTREMELY endangered.. Wonder if the shooter thought they were sandhills? Rewards are out for whoever was responsible]. This is hard for me to comprehend, having visited and admired the small hearty group of sandhill cranes that have made Vermont their breeding ground in the last 6-7 years.
ReplyDeleteWho could shoot these and why? I realize their numbers have locally expanded but it still sticks in my craw. I feel the same way about tundra swans who winter in NC every winter.
Don't you love the cranes voices?
http://kyc4sandhillcranes.com/kyfws-and-usfws-documents/