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Grus canadensis
While this series was taken last year at this time, the parents are back raising a new family. Sandhill crane parents are devoted providers, protectors and teachers of their young. The young colts never stray too far from the parents watchful eye.During the first few weeks of the baby’s life the parents will feed it constantly, gradually decreasing the meals while it teaches the chick to find food for itself. The colt in this images is probably less than 2 days old. The young will stay with their parents for nearly a year, until the next nesting season.
Sandhill cranes feed in marshes, wet grasslands, open fields and meadows. They breed in wet, open marshes and grasslands. While many Sandhill Cranes are migratory and move in large flocks, the Florida Sandhill crane remains in Florida year round. I observed two pairs of Sandhill Crane's nesting and caring for their young in the marshes of Circle B Bar Reserve last year. To everyone's delight, they are back again this year.
Sandhill Crane babies are called Colts because they have long legs and they love to run.
4 Comments
I am also amazed at how the wildlife parents seem to strike a balance helping, teaching and letting go, so the little one's learn to survive on their own. As a parent that is one of the most difficult part childrearing.
Fantastic series, Donna!! I'm always amazed at how gentle parents (of almost any species) are with their young! The size difference in these guys is huge!! Working with raptors has given me a great appreciation for parental care!!
Beautiful spotting, Donna. Lovely little bird. :)
Adorable.