FREE EVENT: Come view sandhill cranes at the Merced National Wildlife Refuge: February 10th at 4:30 p.m.

FREE EVENT: Come view sandhill cranes at the Merced National Wildlife Refuge: February 10th at 4:30 p.m.

Time is running out! The wintering sandhill cranes will be in the San Joaquin Valley for only another 4 to 6 weeks before they migrate north to their summer breeding grounds in Alaska.

Many of you are familiar with the corn croplands along the Merced NWR auto tour route and the wildlife spectacle that is created by the annual mowing of the corn. The Refuge will begin mowing the corn next week -- mowing makes it accessible for the cranes and geese to eat. The corn will be mowed in stages throughout the month, creating terrific viewing opportunities over the next four weeks.

Join us at the Merced NWR on Saturday, February 10th, at 4:30 p.m. to visit with refuge staff, ask questions, and learn about the sandhill cranes and other winter visitors. We will learn about the cranes’ life history and about the amazing adaptations they and other migratory birds have, that support their unique lifestyle.

Witness the spectacle of the evening fly-in as the cranes return from their day of foraging to roost in the refuge wetlands overnight.

Meet at the Merced NWR main entrance information kiosk off Sandy Mush road at 4:30 p.m. From there we will caravan along the tour route in attendees' vehicles to a spot to view the cranes. Be sure to bring binoculars, spotting scopes, field guides, water, hats, sunscreen, etc. There is no charge for this event and need to sign up – just join us!

Call the Refuge Complex at 209/826-3508 for more information, driving directions, or to ask questions. The Merced NWR is located at 7430 W. Sandy Mush Rd., Merced, CA, 95341. Driving directions can also be found on the refuge website:www.fws.gov/refuge/merced

We hope to see you there!

Photo courtesy of Lee Eastman, USFWS