Article:Sandhill crane nests have been discovered at Baker Park Reserve near
Orono/Medina
and Elm Creek Park Reserve in Dayton.
While cranes have been nesting for
several years at Elm Creek, the Baker nest is the first successful nest ever
reported in that park, said Larry Gilette, Three Rivers Park District
wildlife manager.
The nests were discovered by park volunteers. They are located in
remote areas of the parks that are not accessible to the public.
According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Sandhill
cranes, "Grus canadensis," are one of the largest bird species in Minnesota.
The birds stand about five feet tall and have a seven-foot wingspan.
Sandhill cranes feed on a variety of small animals and small grains.
They are protected species to Minnesota.
і Sun Sailor Newspaper, "Article,"
Sandhill Crane Nest Found Baker Park.
Fun Facts:
Sandhill cranes are closely related to the federally endangered whooping
crane. Sandhills have been used in migration experiments guiding young
whooping cranes to wintering areas in the southern U.S. Perhaps our
local Sandhill cranes will someday be credited with saving an endangered
species.
і DNR Website, "Sandhill Cranes,"
Fun Facts.
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