A beautiful flight of Sandhill Cranes just flew over my house here in downtown Columbia. I would estimate there were 150-200 of them in several groups. And they were carrying on a heated conversation, presumably about whether to overnight with us. But I guess they decided it was too early to quit for the day. It is remotely possible that there was a Whooping Crane or two with them, because I understand, although a rare occurrence, a few of the whoopers that have been part of the programmed migration through here have jumped ship and joined up with Sandhills. Anyway it was a worthy sight.

Dozens of Sandhill Cranes had been reported in the Cambpellsville area a little over a week ago, and they've become a fairly common sight overhead recently. Click here to read the Central Kentucky News Journal article and see an accompanying photo.

According to Wikipedia, "Adult cranes can reach four to five feet in height and weigh nine to twelve pounds, with a wing span of up to seven feet. Both sexes look alike. This crane frequently gives a loud trumpeting call that suggests a French-style "r" rolled in the throat. Sandhill Cranes in flight can be differentiated from herons in that they fly with their necks extended and by their nearly constant calls."