History of the Sandhill Crane in Michigan

You may be wondering, why we named our property "Sandhill Crane Ranch".  When we purchased our property, we planned on building a ranch style home. The first time we went to the property, we saw Sandhill Cranes and then started to look into why they lived in our area.  Sandhill Cranes are believed to be the oldest living bird species, having existed for more than 2.5 million years in their present form.      Saved from the brink of extinction, cranes have become a Michigan environmental success story (June 12, 2020).  

Adult Sandhill Crane.
They live 20-30 years in the wild and up to 80 years in captivity.

Why sandhill cranes are important to Michigan...

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Sandhill Cranes mate for life. 
Sandhill cranes mate for life. When they form a pair bond, it can last for years, until one of the cranes dies. After a mate passes away, the surviving crane will seek out a new mate.


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Baby sandhill cranes are called colts, because of their long strong legs. Sandhill cranes mate for life and lay two eggs that incubate for about a month.

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Sandhill Cranes are known for their dancing skills. Courting cranes stretch their wings, pump their heads, bow, and leap into the air in a graceful and energetic dance.

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What does it mean when you see a Sandhill Crane?
The crane teaches about keeping your own counsel, protection of family, and balance in life above all else.” ... When I searched for the symbolic meanings of the cranes, I found that they are ancient symbols of good fortune, happiness, longevity, creativity and eternal youth.

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Crane Symbolisn & Meaning 

The symbolism of cranes takes on different meanings across countries and cultures. This bird mainly represents feminine force, immortality, wisdom, and longevity. So let us dive straight into the symbolism of a crane.

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