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Birds seen at Keehne Environmental Area - Bellevue
Every October Sandhill Cranes gather by the thousands in southwest
Michigan. This is said to be the second largest gathering of these birds
in the U.S. They come flying and soaring in to the wetlands in the Baker
Sanctuary, the air filled with that distinctive, almost prehistoric cry.
For more than 15 years the Michigan Audubon Society and the Kiwanis Club
have opened the Kiwanis Youth Area to the public for the Sandhill Crane
Festival.
The
area where the festival is held is rather wild and the road in and
parking areas are not paved. The festival is spread around a central
building where educational programs and materials are available. There
are usually arts and crafts that are on theme with some very talented
sculptors and other artists on hand. There is an interactive program
featuring live raptors. These birds of prey are shown on the hillside by
local experts.
There are guided walks along the nature trails with expert
naturalists, programs about birding and lots of nature exhibits. This is
a nature area and a wetland, choose practical footwear as it can be wet
out here.
There are sandhill cranes as well, and lots of them. You can find lots
of viewing places prepared. About 4:30 PM The cranes begin to fly in.
Huge flocks can be seen gliding down to the wetlands with peak activity
after 6 PM. You want to bring a camera, binoculars and, perhaps, a light
folding chair.
Usually the second weekend in October