Sandhill Crane

These large, elegant birds have long necks and legs, with a distinctive red forehead. Their feathers are primarily gray, though they sometimes rub mud on themselves, turning the feathers a rusty brown. They are known for their bugling calls and elaborate 'dancing' displays.

Uniform slate-gray to brownish-gray coloration. No distinct banding or spots. The underside is slightly lighter and more matte. The tips show slight melanistic darkening which provides wear resistance.

Densely interlocked pennaceous barbs throughout most of the vane for aerodynamic stiffness; plumulaceous (downy) barbs present at the very base (calamus area) for insulation.

Relatively stiff and smooth texture with a slight waxy/waterproof finish. The trailing edge is flexible and soft to the touch, while the leading edge is rigid.

Uniform slate-gray color, large size (nearly 12 inches), extreme vane asymmetry, and the square-like thickening of the pale rachis at the base.

Open wetlands, marshes, wet grasslands, and agricultural fields. They prefer areas with standing water for roosting and open terrain for foraging.

Breeds across Alaska, Canada, and the northern US; winters in the southern US (Florida, Texas) and Mexico. Resident populations exist in Florida and Mississippi.

Omnivorous foragers that act as both seed dispersers and opportunistic predators. They are important indicators of wetland health.

Great Blue Heron feathers (lack the square rachis base and typically have a more blue-toned gray), Canada Goose (darker/blackish primary vanes), or Tundra Swan (white).

Sandhill Crane fossils dating back 2.5 million years have been found, making them one of the oldest living bird species. Their vocalizations are amplified by a long, coiled trachea.

Excellent condition. The barbs are well-aligned, suggesting a fresh molt. There is very little 'flogging' or wear on the trailing edges.