Photo by Jerry Pace

Adult: Stately, tall gray bird with red crown and lores. White face, black bill and legs. The sandhill may transfer mud to wings and back while preening, giving a red-brown appearance to it's color. Bustle-like tail. Loud trumpeting call can be heard one mile away.

Immature: Gray, but has a more rusty appearance. Lacks red crown. Adult plumage in 2 1/2 years.

Similar species: Whooping Crane.

Habitat: Freshwater marshes, salt marshes, open areas, pastures with livestock and freshly plowed fields. Tend to stay near water at night and in fields during the day.

Breeding: In Florida, January-June.

Click on thumbnails below for larger images.