As summer comes to a close, many of us warmly welcome the early fall staple of the Sandhill Crane’s annual migration. With a wingspan up to six feet, the Sandhill Crane is not only the largest bird in Michigan, but it still holds the title for the oldest living bird species. 

“The prehistoric call and flocks of these large-winged, long-legged birds are an experience like no other,” said Manager of Education and School Programs Lindsay Cain, M.S. She has witnessed these famous crowds of cranes during fall migration and has seen how cranes have impacted people of all ages. “Regardless of when or where you’re able to see them, there really is nothing like hearing a flock fly into a marsh to roost at night.” 

Traveling along country roads of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula can offer spontaneous opportunities to see families of cranes flying overhead, foraging for insects and seeds, or roosting in the evenings. 

During the fall, you’ll typically see groups of three cranes. These groups of three are likely the parents and their young, or this year’s colt. Photo by Benjamin Young

Sandhill Cranes begin their migration journey by leaving their nesting grounds in late summer and early fall. Migration of large flocks starts in southern Michigan in October and lasts until late November.

Where you’re likely to see cranes in Michigan: prior to 10 a.m. and after 2 p.m. are the best times to view Sandhill Cranes foraging in fields near wetlands, agricultural areas, and along roadsides. Later in the day, cranes roost together in large marshy areas and continue to gather through sunset. 

Although migrating Sandhill Cranes head south for the winter, some individuals do overwinter and/or reside in Michigan. As long as the cranes can find adequate food and small areas of open water for roosting at night, they are likely to stay in the area. If you see Sandhill Cranes throughout the winter months, the best thing to do is to leave the bird be. 

CraneFest XXXI

October 10 & 11, 2026 | Bellevue, MI

Join the Kiwanis Club of Battle Creek for the 31st Annual CraneFest and celebrate the annual fall migration of thousands of Sandhill Cranes! The event is held at the Kiwanis Youth Conservation Area (22300 15 Mile Rd., Bellevue, MI 49021) from noon to dusk on Oct. 10–11. Come early to explore color-coded trails in search of seasonal birds and wildlife, browse outdoor-themed artwork and local crafts, and enjoy food from vendors and exhibits from outdoor-minded organizations. Families can also take part in youth activities and get up close with live animal exhibits. Then as dusk approaches, make your way to the lake shore and witness thousands of migrating Sandhill Cranes gather then touch down into Big Marsh Lake.

Admission: Free
Parking: $10 per vehicle, which includes admission for both days. Buses are $1 per person.

Crane Viewing

The Kiwanis Club of Battle Creek invites you to come outside and enjoy an evening outdoors. As dusk approaches, head to the viewing areas along the lakeshore to witness thousands of migrating Sandhill Cranes gather and touch down into Big Marsh Lake. A pavilion and restrooms are available, but be prepared for changing Michigan weather.

Dates: Open on Saturdays and Sundays until dusk (about 7 p.m.)

  • October 17 & 18
  • October 24 & 25
  • October 31 & November 1
  • November 7 & 8

If you can’t make it to the weekend viewing dates at Kiwanis Park, there’s another place to experience the spectacle of fall crane migration. Our Phyllis Haehnle Memorial Sanctuary is located six miles northeast of Jackson, Mich., on Seymour Road.

Restored Wetland at Phyllis Haehnle Sanctuary

The Haehnle Committee of Jackson Audubon Society serves as stewards of this beloved sanctuary, owned by Michigan Audubon. 

Cranes are visible as they fly into the marsh and while roosting. Dedicated volunteers have been conducting a weekly fall crane count at Haehnle since 1969. They welcome visitors to experience the count on Monday evenings, with the best viewing being in the hour leading to sunset.

Michigan Audubon Annual Crane Count for Bernard W. Baker Sanctuary

October 24 | 4:30pm to dusk

Join Michigan Audubon as we conduct our annual Baker Sanctuary crane count!

The count will be conducted from the Kiwanis Youth Conservation Area (22300 15 Mile Rd., Bellevue, MI 49021) overlooking Big Marsh Lake in Bellevue on Saturday, October 24 from 4:30 p.m. to dusk. Bring a chair or blanket to sit on, and grab your binoculars to watch as cranes come in to roost for the night. In 2025, 889 Sandhill Cranes were counted by dedicated volunteers and Michigan Audubon staff.

2025 Baker Crane Count

Help Conserve Sandhill Crane Habitat

If you like what you see when you view crane migration at a nature preserve or sanctuary, please consider making a donation, volunteering, or learning more about how you can help preserve habitat for the Sandhill Crane. 

Featured Photo: Sandhill Crane Landing by Marguerite Eichelberger