Also, the arteries and vessels in their legs are right next to each other so the colder blood is warmed before it reaches the body. The wings of a crane are approximately six feet long. Cranes are lazy fliers, relying on thermals to carry them North. Thermals are rising columns of warm air, and when these southerly winds start to blow, you will see cranes testing them for flight conditions. When cranes do fly, you will notice the upward wingbeat is very quick, giving cranes a mechanical look.
Cranes are among the oldest living birds on the plant.
Fossil records place cranes in Nebraska more than 9 million years ago, long before there was a Platte River, which by comparison, is a youthful 10,000 years of age. Cranes have adapted well to the change in landscapes over time and will continue to do so. Their populations are healthy and continue to rise. Understanding the biology of cranes will add to your enjoyment and appreciation as you watch them in their daily activities and marvel at the magic of their migration.