Sandhill Silhouette -- Lesser Sandhill Crane at the Merced National Wildlife Refuge, California

by Darin Volpe

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Sandhill Silhouette -- Lesser Sandhill Crane at the Merced National Wildlife Refuge, California

Artist

Darin Volpe

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Photograph - Photography

Description

Standing in a pond, a lesser sandhill crane is one of the first to have returned as evening came to the Merced National Wildlife Refuge.

The sandhill crane is a large and elegant bird with distinctive features, including a long neck, a red crown on its head, and a grayish-brown plumage. Seeing its silhouette against the backdrop of the refuge's pond creates a picturesque moment.

It's a captivating scene that captures the essence of the refuge's natural beauty. The Merced National Wildlife Refuge, located in the San Joaquin Valley of California, is known for its diverse ecosystems and is a critical habitat for migratory birds.

Each evening, as the sun goes down, thousands of sandhill cranes return to the refuge from a day of feeding in the surrounding farmland. The sandhill crane fly-in at Merced National Wildlife Refuge is not only a stunning natural event but also a testament to the importance of protected areas in providing critical stopover points for migratory birds. It offers a unique and unforgettable experience for those fortunate enough to witness this annual spectacle of nature's grandeur.

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December 31st, 2023

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