Monte Vista – Migrating Cranes – Weekend of March 15th & 16th

March Field Trip took place last weekend, as we witnessed the Annual Migration of the Sandhill Cranes. San Luis Valley’s oldest visitors, the Sandhill Cranes begin their annual trek from south to north, stopping off near the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge to load up on fuel. For millions of years, the Sandhills have been spending their Spring Break in Colorado’s Valley, and more recently wild life watchers have been drawn to wonder at this phenomenal natural spectacle.

March Field Trip took place last weekend, as we witnessed the Annual Migration of the Sandhill Cranes. San Luis Valley’s oldest visitors, the Sandhill Cranes begin their annual trek from south to north, stopping off near the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge to load up on fuel. For millions of years, the Sandhills have been spending their Spring Break in Colorado’s Valley, and more recently wild life watchers have been drawn to wonder at this phenomenal natural spectacle. 20,000 or so greater Sandhills, a few thousand lesser, thousands of waterfowl, wintering bald eagles and other raptors that highlight viewing. Weather was agreeable, and the enthusiasm of everyone present adding to the awesome event. Most participants managed a break-away visit to the Great Sand Dunes, another phenomenon of sorts also in the area. There was roughly a dozen of us, including two members from the CO Urban Wildlife Photography Club, and Pat Gautier who is a member of both clubs. It was great fun! Hoping to organize a sampler of shots taken by participants to view at the next General Meeting in April. Very Special Thanks to Pat Gautier for his enthusiastic guidance throughout the trip.