In a recent trip to the Medano Zapata Ranch near the entrance to the Great Sand Dunes National Park, Walking Mountains bird enthusiasts got to witness a special Colorado moment - a visit from the Sandhill Cranes. The Monte Vista Wildlife preserve is a stopping point on the yearly migratory path of these greater and lesser cranes who make their permanent home New Mexico. Each spring and fall they listen to their instincts and take to the air, final destination - Idaho and in some cases southwestern Canada. Toward the end of February and through the month of March, Coloradans can make the trek to the Alamosa region to witness this spectacular event.
If you've never been to this region, plan a trip - not only are the cranes incredible but the sand dunes are not to be missed. Bordered by the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range, the dunes rise 750 feet above the valley floor to create a surreal and special landscape. Wildlife abounds in this region - you can expect to see many, many species of birds, bison, coyote, deer, elk, snakes and more.
