
Whitewater Draw 1724

by Robert Harris
Title
Whitewater Draw 1724
Artist
Robert Harris
Medium
Photograph - Premium Luster Photo Paper
Description
Every winter, Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area near McNeal, Arizona, transforms into a sanctuary for thousands of sandhill cranes. From late October to early March, around 20,000 of these majestic birds, with their distinctive red crowns and impressive wingspans, arrive at this wetland habitat, creating one of the most spectacular wildlife events in the region.
The cranes migrate from their northern breeding grounds to escape the harsh winter, finding refuge in the mild climate and abundant resources of Whitewater Draw. Here, the marshlands and open fields provide an ideal environment for roosting and feeding. The cranes feast on leftover grains from nearby agricultural fields, as well as insects and small animals, which sustain them during their stay.
Visitors to Whitewater Draw can observe the cranes at dawn as they take flight in large flocks, a sight that is both awe-inspiring and serene. The best viewing times are just after sunrise when the birds leave their roosts to feed and later in the morning when they return to rest.
This annual migration highlights the importance of protecting and preserving habitats like Whitewater Draw, which play a critical role in the survival of these and other migratory species​.
Uploaded
August 30th, 2024
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