Sandhill crane is one of the oldest bird species on the planet and also one of the largest. With a height of 48 in (122 cm) and a wingspan around 80 in (200 cm), cranes can be easily spotted even from a distance and are recognizable thanks to a bright red spot on their forehead. Every fall, a large group of sandhill cranes arrives in Texas to spend winter by the warm Gulf of Mexico. Graceful birds can often be spotted on Galveston and Padre islands.
Sandhill cranes arrive in Galveston from their northern breeding grounds in the last week of October. They can usually be seen in wetlands from Galveston to Port Aransas. The Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council even holds a crane festival on the second weekend in December to celebrate the return of these beautiful birds.
There used to be several roosting sites for sandhill cranes in Galveston. However, now they only roost at Sweetwater Preserve. You can also head to Brazoria Wildlife Refuge, 45 mi (72 km) southwest of Galveston, to spot a larger group, as there are up to 1,000 birds roosting on the flooded rice fields in the southern part of the park. Sandhill Cranes can also be observed at Padre Island National Seashore, not far from Corpus Cristi.
Practical info
When do sandhill cranes arrive in Galveston, TX?
The sandhill cranes' arrival period in Galveston, TX happen from late October through February with a usual arrival date during the last week of October. The Sweetwater Preserve is the main spot where they are commonly seen roosting as they spend their winter there. This preserve is known for a large roosting area and consequently more crane sightings. Show more
Where can I spot sandhill cranes in Galveston, TX?
The Gulf Coast from Galveston to Padre Island is known for being an area where sandhill cranes sightings happen frequently. The place with the largest roosting spaces near Galveston is Sweetwater Preserve, while another area where groups of up to a thousand cranes can be observed is at Brazoria Wildlife Refuge. The latter is located at the southwestern part of Galveston. Show more
How big are sandhill cranes at Galveston, TX?
Upon observation, Sandhill cranes are found to have an extraordinary height of 48 inches (122 cm). Additionally, their wingspan can grow to around 80 inches (200 cm) in size. Sandhill cranes are widely noticeable due to their size, and they can be identified further with their visible red spot on the forehead. The distinctive red patch can be seen when the birds are tilting their heads. Show more
Are there any other places to see sandhill cranes in Texas?
Galveston Island is not the only area for sandhill crane sightings in Texas. That means other areas such as Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge, which is about 45 minutes west of Galveston, and Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, located in Corpus Christi, can also be explored. These two areas are situated along the Upper Texas Coast and provide a perfect sight for the sandhill cranes' habitats. Show more
What is the Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council crane festival?
The crane festival of Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council is a yearly event that occurs every second weekend of December. Its primary objective is to celebrate the graceful cranes' return to their new winter habitat in Texas. Guests attending this event can participate in guided tours, lectures, and interactive workshops, aside from bird watching activities. Visitors can also learn about bird habitats and gain further insights into these birds' behavior. Show more
