Their predictable migration is comparable to the swallows of Capistrano, but far more dramatic. These 5-foot tall birds with a 7-foot wingspan flock in large numbers, dance, and are among the most vocal of birds. They migrate from northeastern California and eastern Oregon, along with the slightly smaller Lesser Sandhill Cranes, which return from Canada, Alaska and Siberia. The population has stabilized over the last few years and is increasing annually.

Winter is the peak of the viewing season. The best place to see the cranes is on one of the DFG’s lead tours at the Isenberg (Woodbridge) Crane Reserve near Lodi. Public tours will be held all Sundays, and the second Thursday and second Saturday in February. Tours involve very little walking and are wheelchair accessible. Each tour is two hours long, starting about 90 minutes before sunset and ending at dusk to watch for the fly-in of cranes. The Reserve is the crane capital of California, hosting the largest numbers of greater Sandhill cranes in the state. Swans, ducks, geese, hawks, herons, owls and other wildlife are often seen on these tours led by docent naturalists.

To register, send a self-addressed stamped envelope and a note stating name, complete address, phone number, first, second and third choice of tour dates, and number of adults in party. Children are welcome on tours, and an $8 donation is requested from each adult. Please make a check payable to the California Wildlife Foundation. Send registration and check to Crane Tours, California Department of Fish & Game, 1701 Nimbus Rd., Rancho Cordova, CA 95670. For the most current information about the Crane Tours, call (916) 358-2869.