Linton, Indiana–Every year Goose Pond Fish & Wildlife Area in Linton, Indiana sponsors the annual Marsh Madness. No, that’s not a typo, it’s not about basketball, it’s about cranes. Specifically, sandhill cranes. Due to Covid-19, this year’s event on Saturday, Feb. 27 is virtual, so visitors from all over can experience the arrival of cranes and other waterfowl, such as swans and specklebelly geese.
The cranes have been flocking to Goose Pond every year on their migratory flight back north. They like to rest in the cornfields and marshy areas, nibbling on seeds, grains, and insects. And the occasional vole or field mouse.
The cranes aren’t waiting for the virtual event. They’re already flying, resting, and generally hanging out in the thousands, and there is a lot of room on the property for social distancing if you want to come in person. One of the best spots for viewing cranes is at the Goose Pond Visitor Center, as it is set up above some of the fields and it’s easier to see approaches and landings.
Sandhill cranes are not small creatures–they’re about the size of a small deer, but since the stalks of corn are tall, the birds nearly disappear when they land.
