Sunrise at San Luis Valley and thousands of Cranes Hoodie

Twice a year over 20,000 Sandhill Cranes migrate through the San Luis Valley. During the spring the cranes arrive mid-February and most are gone by mid-April. In the fall the cranes arrive in early September and are mostly gone by mid-November. The San Luis Valley is an ideal stopping ground for these birds as it is rich in food. During the day most of the birds can be seen in farmer’s fields eating the left over grain or on the Monte Vista Wildlife Refuge. At night the cranes travel to the nearby Rio Grande River and ponds to feel safe in the water. Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge. San Luis Valley, Colorado. USA. March, 2015.