Sandhill Crane Migration in Indiana 2024

A flock of Sandhill cranes is one of the most amazing natural spectacles that you can observe in North America. Half a million of these gorgeous birds migrate annually from nesting areas in the north to wintering grounds in the south. Indiana lies on these crane's fall migration routes, as the large group of cranes circle between breeding sites in Wisconsin and Michigan and the warm marshes of Georgia and Florida. The South Shore region of north-west Indiana lies in between those two destinations.

Sandhill Crane Season in Indiana

Cranes start to arrive in Indiana in late September and usually stay through December. The South Shore of Lake Michigan becomes their stopover before the long flight.

Place to View Sandhill Crane Migration in Indiana

Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area

Marshes, wetlands, and grasslands are abundant in Jasper County, especially the Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area, which hosts tens of thousands of cranes every fall. Visit its 300-acre Goose Pasture Viewing Area to see cranes, witness their "dances", as well as listen to their distinctive chatter and calls.

The best times to see Sandhill Cranes are at sunrise and sunset. When the sun rises, large flocks fly out of their roosts into the Goose Pasture, where they begin foraging for breakfast in the local fields. About an hour prior to sunset, the flocks head back into Goose Pasture and return to the roosting marshes. The wetlands in the recreation area are closed to visitors so that the birds can rest from the attention of observers. The Sandhill Cranes are best seen from the observation platform at the Sandhill Crane Observation Area.

Nearby, visitors to Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area can find restrooms and a picnic area with shade. The Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area operates 24/7. However, spring turkey hunting, dove hunting, in-person or standby draws, and more have specific hours.

Viewing Tips

Cranes are usually seen several hundred yards from the observation deck. However, there are times when they gather closer to the platform. Since leaving the observation deck is not allowed, there are several stationary optical tubes available, but it's best to bring your own spotting scope or binoculars. Also, don't forget to bring a camera with a good zoom to capture great photos.

Sandhill Cranes General Information

Sandhill cranes are very large and tall birds that reach 3-4 feet (1-1.2 meters) in height. They have a long neck and legs as well as quite broad wings. Their most recognizable feature is a red crown on the head. These birds can mostly fly 200 (322 kilometers) to 300 miles (482 kilometers) in a day, although they can reach 500 miles (804 kilometers) with a good tailwind. Cranes can live for more than 35 years in the wild. Some cultures see cranes as symbols of happiness, good fortune, and eternal youth.