Participate in the Michigan Fall Sandhill Crane Survey

Volunteers are being sought to help census the fall population of Sandhill Cranes in Michigan. Since 1979, the US Fish and Wildlife Service has conducted a survey of the Eastern Population, including those in Michigan. The number counted in Michigan has increased from 757 in 1979 to 21,358 last year (see Michigan Birds and Natural History for more details).

The 2011 survey will be conducted primarily Friday, October 28, but counts through October 31 will be accepted. Cranes tallied either leaving or returning their night roosting sites are preferred, but if that is not possible, they may be counted in fields during the day. For more information contact Ron Hoffman at 517-769-6891 or ronandjoanhoffman@yahoo.com.