A Unique Birding Experience in Jasper-Pulaski, Indiana
I think I am becoming a birder! Visiting Jasper-Pulaski, Indiana to see the sandhill crane migration has been on my bucket list for a couple of years. With the 1.5-hour drive from the Chicagoland area, I pondered: is the journey truly worth it? After all, nature doesn’t offer guarantees.
Happy to report that I am glad I took that chance and made this trek! I was treated to an awe-inspiring spectacle as thousands of cranes landed near the observation area, flying in from all directions. And I wasn’t alone in this sentiment. The viewing deck was packed with a lot of folks from the Chicagoland area and even a group from the Midwest National Audubon Society.
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The best date to see the sandhill crane migration?
It’s easy, just watch the counts on the Indiana Department of Natural Resources website. And, be sure to check out the weather forecast too for your own sake! Here were the counts when I visited in early December 2021:
Bundle up!
I was fortunate to visit on a rare mild 50-degree day in early December. Even so, the temperature drops as the sun goes down — so dress accordingly. Maybe even pack some hot cocoa because you will be outside for an hour or more.
What time to arrive?
Research what time the sun sets and try to arrive 30-minutes to 1-hour ahead of time to soak it all in. Remember, this is in the Eastern Time Zone. While I do not think it is typical, when I was there the viewing deck was packed with over 100 people. Arriving early guarantees you a good viewing spot. This also gives you time to read the informational signage.
The signs and sounds of thousands of sandhill cranes
It was neat to watch the blue sky turn into a dramatic painting of colors. Then the viewing deck started to fill up as we quietly watched a dozen deer graze in the field and a couple of red-tailed hawks circle overhead. But I was here to see masses of large stately sandhill cranes. Where were they? It got a little daunting as the sun approached the horizon and we had witnessed fewer than 50 cranes fly overhead. Several flocks flew far in the distance, landing too far to see or really hear. Was this trip a bust? Some folks even left at this point — including the guy with the biggest telescope!
Wait for it. Wait for it. Wait for it….
The sun touched down and the magic started. Sandhill cranes began to fly in by the hundreds. Only about 100 cranes landed near the viewing deck and it was too dark for close-up photos at this point. However, the experience of the sounds and sight of these majestic birds coming in from all directions lasted about 20-minutes and was simply wondrous.
Do you bring the family?
I was one of the few visitors without grey hair and expensive binoculars! As such, there is a handicapped parking lot right at the viewing deck versus taking the trail from the main parking lot. Seeing the Sandhill Crane Migration may not be an experience that kids would enjoy on its own. Maybe if you are driving north or south on I-65 for a college visit or a sports tournament. And, pack a football because there is a field where kids could throw a ball around.
Another angle
Many folks were lined up below the viewing deck with their big binoculars and camera lens. I didn’t see this until the way out and do not know if it was because of the crowds or a good place to watch the birds land. Check it out for yourself!
FITS BITS TIP: Take note of the driving directions on your way in. I lost cell service and things look a little different as you depart in the near dark.
Visited in December 2021
