Ohio Species Spotlight: Sandhill Crane

Species Spotlight

Jun 1

Species: Grus canadensis

Conservation Status: Threatened in Ohio

The Sandhill Crane is a striking, tall bird standing 3 to 4 feet high with a wingspan of up to 6.5 feet. It’s recognized by its long legs, long neck, grayish-brown feathers, and distinctive red crown on its head. These cranes are known for their trumpeting calls that echo across wetlands and open fields, especially when traveling in large migratory flocks.

Habitat and Behavior

Sandhill Cranes depend on wetlands, grasslands, and agricultural fields for nesting and feeding. Shallow wetlands provide the aquatic plants, seeds, insects, and small animals they need to survive. They build their nests near water, often returning to the same sites year after year—particularly in areas like the Scioto River Valley and Ohio’s restored wetlands.

Why Sandhill Cranes Matter: Their Role in the Ecosystem

Sandhill Cranes play a vital role in maintaining healthy wetland ecosystems:

Nutrient Cycling: By foraging on a wide range of food—plants, insects, and even small vertebrates—they help regulate populations and spread nutrients throughout wetland areas.
Indicator Species: Because they are sensitive to environmental changes, especially in water quality and habitat availability, Sandhill Cranes act as indicator species. Their presence signals the health of an ecosystem. If crane populations decline, it’s often a sign that the broader wetland environment is in trouble.
Seed Dispersers: As they feed and move through different areas, Sandhill Cranes also help disperse seeds, supporting plant diversity in their habitats.
Cultural Importance: Cranes are revered in many cultures and have been symbols of longevity, harmony, and renewal. Their graceful mating dances and loud, resonating calls are a treasured part of natural heritage.

Threats to Their Survival in Ohio

Although Sandhill Crane populations are strong in other parts of North America, they are listed as threatened in Ohio due to:

Loss of Wetlands: Wetlands have been drained or developed for agriculture, housing, and industry, drastically shrinking the spaces available for nesting and feeding.
Disturbance from Humans: Recreational activities and nearby land development can disturb nesting areas and disrupt migration stopovers.
Pollution and Pesticides: Runoff from lawns and farms introduces harmful chemicals into water systems, affecting both cranes and the food they rely on.

How You Can Help

Support habitat restoration by volunteering or donating to projects that restore and protect wetlands and grasslands.
Limit chemical use by reducing or eliminating pesticides and herbicides in gardens and landscapes. These chemicals can poison the water sources and food webs Sandhill Cranes depend on.
Advocate for land conservation policies that protect natural spaces from development and degradation.
Report crane sightings to local wildlife agencies to help monitor populations and track their recovery.
Keep a respectful distance: Never approach or feed wild Sandhill Cranes, and never try to keep one as a pet—it is illegal and harmful to the bird.