May 11, 2014

Sandhill Crane Mama

Sandhill Cranes
I checked in on the sandhill crane family recently, and Baby had grown quite a bit within just two weeks.  (You can see my first post here.)  While I was there, Baby was testing its ginormous feet, walking around the nest and swimming to shore then back to the nest.  Both parents were there, including this one who was taking housekeeping to a whole new level.  I couldn't help but think this was the female, as I watched her diligently move branches, grass and piles of mud onto their island nest.  She was very intent on maintaining that soggy home as best she could.  It seems a mother's work is never done, whatever the species.  The apparent father was standing guard nearby, most likely watching for predators.  Check out the short video I shot to see what I mean.


Happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there!

11 comments:

Nancy J said...

That is serious work, muddy, messy, and shows that being a Mum is the same in whatever field you are. I'm thankful I have a roof, dry floor, and walls with windows!! Cheers, Jean.

Mersad said...

Lovely video. And I agree, that being a mom is the hardest thing.

Mersad said...

Lovely video. And I agree, that being a mom is the hardest thing.

Jack said...

SRQ, your video is fascinating. It was enlightening to see the roles of the mother and father. The mother works her feathered buns off and the father stands there looking regal. I could be a father sandhill crane.

Pam said...

What a wonderful mother's day post! Thank you so much for sharing your glimpse into their life.

Andy said...

Wonderful nature photography.

Brian King said...

The baby is too funny! We get cranes in the western part of the state, but not here, unfortunately. Nice video!

Michelle said...

What a baby! Being a mom is a tough job, no matter what species you are :)

Kay said...

This is wonderful - both the still shot and the video. I have to admit that the video gave me a laugh. No chicks in our nest, but the whole scene felt very familiar. I guess it must be in the DNA. In my world, when I'm just about done, the gallant male suddenly wakes up and says, "Anything I can do?"

Lois said...

Too much cuteness! I love seeing these birds. I have a friend in Orlando who complains about them doing their business in his backyard. That wouldn't bother me one bit!

Lowell said...

We've got a lot of sandhill cranes here also (much to my surprise) but I've never seen a young 'un. Very cool pic and video!