Five Thousand Cranes

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Just got back from a visit to the Monte Vista Refuge. There were about 5,000 Sandhill Cranes scattered in the usual locations. Best viewing is from Hwy 15 turnouts. There are also about 6,000 mixed Geese including Canada, Cackling and a few Snows. Of particular interest was the return of a leucistic Canada Goose with a normal head and neck, white body, and black tail. This bird has been here in years past, and in fact there may be more than one with this same plumage. A good assortment of ducks as well with the first Cinnamon Teal of the season showing up. Plenty of good birds to see after our wintry snowfall last night.

John Rawinski

Monte Vista