A group of Sandhill Cranes spent the winter at a nearby refuge, giving us the chance to see them during their stay.
Notice the rusty tint on some of these cranes’ feathers. Sometimes they stain their gray feathers with iron-rich mud during preening, resulting in this rusty coloration. Though it is not known exactly why this is done, various theories suggest that it may help with camouflage, enhance their appearance during mating season, serve as an alternative to dust bathing, or assist in controlling feather parasites. Regardless of the reason, this splash of color adds an interesting touch to their ash-gray feathers.
Below are a couple of photos of Sandhill Cranes we spotted flying over the fields near our house.
“When melodies dance and colors splash, the world becomes a little less gray.” ~Unknown
Credits: https://blog.nature.org/2024/03/20/did-you-know-sandhill-cranes-dye-their-feathers/
walking on a country road 
We often spotted a few of these on our mini-road trips. Paul loved painting them. They’re pretty cool birds.
Seeing them is one of the highlights of our winter season. Often you can hear them overhead before you will see them.
Nice shots Rebecca! During mating season a group of cranes is often referred to as a Dance.
I do not know but I would lean into your theory of “rusting” themselves for mating season?
Getting all dolled up. 🙂 Thanks, Wayne.
Awesome to have them nearby over the winter! Lovely shots!
It’s quite a treat to be able to see them so close. Our numbers are nowhere like they have out in Nebraska in the winter. I’d love to make that trip sometime.
It must be marvelous to see a flock flying and calling overhead. I’ve read that their numbers are growing and they are returning to historical ranges. A happy thought!
Awesome 👍