JASPER-PULASKI– Each fall, the Jasper-Pulaski Fish & Wildlife Area (FWA) becomes a vibrant hub for wildlife enthusiasts as thousands of sandhill cranes migrate. This spectacle offers prime wildlife viewing opportunities, especially from the observation deck, where visitors can witness these magnificent birds in action.
To catch a glimpse of the flocks, plan your visit during sunrise or sunset, when the cranes are most active. The observation deck features several stationary viewing scopes, but bringing your spotting scope or binoculars can enhance your experience.
For those unable to visit in person, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) provides weekly updates on sandhill crane counts throughout the migratory season until mid-December.
DNR staff conduct these crane counts during the peak of the fall migration, typically every Tuesday, weather permitting. If conditions are poor on a Tuesday, counts are rescheduled for Thursday. The weekly counts usually conclude in the last week of December.
The counting process is meticulous and efficient. Four to six property staff members conduct their counts before sunrise. Each staff member is stationed in parked vehicles across different areas of the property, allowing them to count small groups of cranes as they leave their roosts and take to the skies.
As the counts progress, one of the property managers checks the waterfowl resting area where the cranes roosted overnight, notifying the team when most cranes have taken flight and estimating any remaining numbers. Once the counts are complete, each staff member returns to the office to tally their results for the final weekly count.
This systematic approach works well, as the cranes gather in wetlands near the center of the property each night. By positioning themselves at sufficient distances, staff members avoid duplicating counts, ensuring accuracy in the data collected.
Here are the counts for the last few days:
| Oct. 8: 3,223 | Oct. 15: 3,260 | Oct. 23: 3,467 | Oct. 29: 4,676 |
To follow the counting, click here.
Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or a casual nature lover, the annual migration of sandhill cranes at Jasper-Pulaski FWA promises an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss your chance to witness this natural wonder.
