For five weeks each spring, the Platte River Valley in south-central Nebraska is home to a symphony of sounds and dancing rituals of ninety percent of the world’s sandhill cranes. The cranes are in Nebraska for just one reason, to eat heartily and store energy for their migration. Over 500,000 cranes stop in for this banquet along the Platte River. This is truly one of nature’s most magnificent migration feats. Join EAC on this awe-inspiring experience.
Highlights:
Witness one of nature’s top migration spectacles as over 500,000 sandhill cranes gather along the Platte River in Nebraska.
Spend one night in a specially designed photo blind, just feet from the banks of the Platte River and thousands of sandhill cranes. A photographer’s dream!
Enjoy viewing of other species such as, bald eagles, prairie chickens, waterfowl and probably the most elusive of all, the endangered whooping crane.
Visit the Rowe Sanctuary, the Rainwater Basin, Fort Kearney and other points of interest.
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Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Lincoln to Grand Island, Nebraska Arrive at the Lincoln, Nebraska airport and be transported to Grand Island, Nebraska. After check-in and some time to relax, the group will meet for dinner and an presentation by Director of the Platte River Whooping Crane Maintenance Trust, Inc.
Overnight at Holiday Inn, Grand Island (D)
Day 2: Crane Watch! Rise early and depart by 4:30am (sorry!). You will be driven to the Trust facility for morning observations in a blind designed for Sandhill crane watching. A professional crane biologist will accompany the group as you will learn about crane ecology, migration, food and mating habits, threats and long-term management plans. You’ll enjoy hot drinks and pastries while observing and identifying numerous bird species and other wildlife of the Platte River basin.
Returning to the Trust, you will visit Crane Meadows Nature Center before returning to the hotel for relaxation. Before sunset you’ll return to the Trust for a wine and cheese social and, later, enter one of the many blinds to watch the evening Sandhill crane migration back to the Platte River roosting areas. A dinner presentation is scheduled at the Trust for the evening.
Overnight at Holiday Inn, Grand Island (B,L,D)
Day 3: Grand Island to Lincoln, Nebraska Out to the field, you’ll be driven through the Rainwater Basin, a diverse waterfowl ecosystem, stopping frequently for viewing opportunities. Joined by whooping crane ecologist, you’ll travel the Whooper-Watch circuit in search of the elusive and endangered whooping crane. The important role NWF is making in the recovery of this important species will be discussed.
After a delicious lunch, travel to Lincoln for some time to relax. Later you’ll visit Michael Forsberg’s gallery. Michael is one of the foremost Sandhill crane photographers in the country. After viewing his wonderful photographs, enjoy a wonderful farewell dinner and share highlights of the week’s activities.
Overnight at Holiday Inn, Lincoln (B,L,D)
Day 4: Lincoln to Omaha, Nebraska One last early morning observation and later, depart for the airport for noon flights. (B)
Notes
Weather The Sandhill Cranes of the Platte River tour is located in areas where the weather may change at a moment's notice. Temperatures can vary greatly, and one must be prepared in the event the weather turns for the worst. Keep in mind that you may be a distance from the vehicle or protection. Being in the presence of weather changes is a large part of the experience, but can be miserable if one is not prepared for the change. Preparation is the key!
Luggage It is requested that luggage be kept to a minimum of one large (preferably soft-sided) suitcase and one carry-on/backpack per person.
Physical Activity Most everyone in a reasonably good physical condition can participate in this tour offered by the Environmental Adventure Company. The activities will include some hiking in conditions ranging from snow and mud to dry conditions. Standing and observing for periods of time and kneeling or squatting to examine wildlife tracks or signs, are part of the activities. Consult with your physician if you have questions about the program. It is your responsibility to let the tour operator know of any complications that may be associated with traveling under any of these conditions.
Pre-Departure Information When you sign-up for an adventure, you will receive a detailed Pre-Departure information packet prior to your trip which will help you prepare. This packet will help you make decisions about what to bring – and what not to bring! It includes a reading list, a clothing recommendation page as well as information on what to expect the weather to do while you are at the destination! There is also information about necessary documents, health issues, and even photographic tips. Feel free to contact EAC for more information.
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