The Sandhill Crane is the oldest living bird species, with fossils dating back 2.5 million years that are virtually identical to living birds. Its loud, bugling rattles carry for miles and the spring staging of half a million birds along Nebraska's Platte River is one of the greatest wildlife spectacles in North America. Pairs perform elegant, leaping courtship dances year-round that strengthen their lifelong pair bond.
Habitat
Wetlands, grasslands, and agricultural fields
Diet
Grain, insects, tubers, snakes, and small mammals
How common
Common
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