photo by Donna Bourdon
The annual Sandhill Crane migration has been called one of the greatest spectacles of nature in the Southeast. Each winter between 15,000 and 20,000 of these graceful birds converge upon the Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge on their journey from the upper Midwest to Florida. “The cranes begin arriving in late November, but their numbers peak in early January,” said Kevin Calhoon, the Tennessee Aquarium’s assistant curator of forests.
The Sandhill Cranes, and other migratory birds, are fortunate to have such a welcoming stopover in Tennessee.
Located just north of Chattanooga, at the confluence of the Hiwassee and Tennessee Rivers, the Refuge contains 6,000 acres of habitat. Nearly 2,500 acres is a wooded landscape interspersed with food plots. The remaining 3,500 acres is water.
Exploring the Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge is a privilege that many Tennessee Valley residents may take for granted. Wild places like this are disappearing around the world. According to a scientific study, published in the journal Science last week, half of the world’s migratory birds have experienced significant population declines in recent years. Researchers say critical refueling habitat is being developed at an alarming rate. These scientists say protecting more lands, like the Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge, is critical to the survival of birds that travel long distances.
So, witnessing this impressive gathering of cranes in our backyard is a special event. Mr. Calhoon and other Aquarium experts will lead Sandhill Crane viewing cruises aboard the River Gorge Explorer during the peak of their migration the first three weekends in January. (See dates below.)
During each two-hour excursion, passengers will enjoy excellent viewing from inside the climate-controlled cabin as well as outside on the stern viewing deck or topside observation platform. “The Hiwassee Refuge is special in winter because of the sheer numbers of cranes that can be easily seen from the river,” said Mr. Calhoon. “There’s also just the right ingredients to draw many other bird species to the area.”
Mr. Calhoon serves as statistician of the bird records for Southeast Tennessee and says this critical stopover point for Sandhill Cranes is also perfect habitat for resident and transient Bald Eagles, numerous waterfowl species including Snow and White-fronted Geese. Birders have also recorded occasional sightings of Ross’s Geese, White Pelicans and even a few Whooping Cranes. “We will also see wintering Dunlin, Least Sandpipers and Wilson’s Snipe on the mudflats with the Sandhill Cranes,” said Mr. Calhoon. “This variety of bird species and close up views from the water is why photographers and wildlife viewers love coming to the refuge every winter.”
Each cruise is designed to get into the Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge efficiently so there’s more time to enjoy the scenery. “We’ll have enough time to pause and make sure everyone gets a good view whenever we see something special while circumnavigating Hiwassee Island,” said Captain Pete Hosemann. “The success of last year’s excursions paved the way for the Aquarium to offer more Sandhill Crane cruises in 2016.”
Passengers will also have two experienced Aquarium naturalists aboard during each expedition to help spot wildlife and bring the area’s rich history to life. Archaeologists recognize the island as one of the most significant Native American cultural sites in the region. “I really enjoy using our video system to help illustrate what life was like along this stretch of river during the past,” said Aquarium naturalist John Dever. “We pack a lot into each cruise to help everyone appreciate the communities that once existed here and the historic significance of Hiwassee Island.”
The 2016 Sandhill Crane cruise schedule is being announced in time for holiday gift giving. “Many people are looking for ways to experience nature with family,” said Don Walker, the Aquarium’s director of guest services. “We think these cruises would be a thoughtful gift for everyone who loves being outdoors and watching wildlife.”
Cruises will depart from the Sale Creek Marina which is located at 3900 Lee Pike near Soddy-Daisy, Tennessee. For a Google Map and directions, go to: http://bit.ly/1ByJ1sW
Special Two-hour Sandhill Crane Cruises Aboard the River Gorge Explorer
Cruises depart at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on the following dates:
Jan. 1, 2 & 3, 2016
Jan. 8, 9 & 10, 2016
Jan. 15, 16, 17 & 18, 2016
Cruises are limited to 65 passengers.
Registration is $35 for Tennessee Aquarium members, $45 for non-members. Groups of 15 or more receive special pricing of $40 per person.
Tickets for these special cruises must be purchased in advance online at: http://www.tnaqua.org/sandhill-crane-cruises