Here in Alabama, thousands of sandhill cranes invade the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge every winter. Because this migration of the sandhill cranes in Alabama only happens this time of year, it’s a real treat to see. For information about Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge and its famous sandhill cranes, take a look below.

Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, which was established in 1938, is located in Decatur, Alabama. It's one of the state's top wildlife refuges.
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Covering approximately 35,000 acres, this wildlife refuge's primary purpose is to provide a safe habitat for 300 species of migratory and wintering birds, in addition to other wildlife.
google/Weishu Chen
Speaking of birds, Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge attracts thousands of waterfowl each year. In fact, Alabama's largest duck population can be found at this wildlife refuge each winter.
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Sandhill cranes are quite possibly Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge's main attraction during the winter season. They begin to arrive in late November, and the number of them peak in early January.
google/Hank Allen

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The best place to observe these sandhill cranes is from the wildlife refuge's Observation Building. Everyone loves gathering here to watch the birds interact with their environment, especially children.
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Whooping cranes, which are North America's tallest birds, can also be viewed at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge. They're also among North America's rarest and most endangered birds.
facebook/Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge Complex
In addition to birds, this wildlife refuge is also a habitat for 47 species of mammals, 115 species of fish, 38 species of freshwater mussels, 74 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 26 species of freshwater snails.
google/Jason Kenosky
If you happen to be passing through Decatur, Alabama this winter season, consider visiting Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge. Its famous sandhill cranes are a definite must see!
google/David Miles
Visit the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge’s webpage for more information about the migration of the sandhill cranes in Alabama. .

Have you ever visited Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge during the winter? If so, what did you think about the sandhill cranes? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

Another wildlife refuge in Alabama that’s worthy of a visit is the Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge. For information, be sure to take a look at the following article: This Little Known Natural Oasis Is Hiding In Alabama… And You’re Going To Love It.

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SANDHILL CRANES IN ALABAMA & RELATED INFO

Melanie J. | November 29, 2022

Besides the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, where else can I see sandhill cranes in Alabama?

Starting in October, you can witness thousands of sandhill cranes in Alabama. While many of these cranes can be seen at the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, here are a few more places where you can glimpse these majestic birds:

  • Flint Creek Natural Area
  • White Springs Dike - Woodlands and Waters
  • Limestone Bay
  • Garth Slough Lake
  • Weiss Reservoir on the Coosa River


The Tennessee River valley is the main area where you will witness the migration of sandhill cranes in Alabama. You can also attend the Festival of the Cranes held in mid-January at the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge to see and celebrate these migratory birds. The 2-day event is free and will attract many bird watchers from near and far.  

Where can you hunt sandhill cranes in Alabama?

After over a century of being prohibited, it is now legal to hunt sandhill cranes in Alabama. The hunting zones are restricted to the northern portion of the state, and they include towns like:

  • Jasper
  • Blount
  • Jackson
  • Marshall
  • Franklin
  • Madison
  • Lauderdale

The season begins in early December and varies by date through January of the next year. Of course, in order to hunt sandhill cranes in Alabama, you will need to obtain all the licenses and permits needed and fulfill all the requirements for the state. Additionally, hunting is strictly prohibited in all wildlife refuge areas in Alabama. 

How long do sandhill cranes remain in Alabama?

Sandhill cranes remain in Alabama for about 6 months. They begin their migration in October and will remain in the state until April. However, it is during the winter months, where the migration will be at its peak and you’ll be able to witness thousands of these majestic birds in the Tennessee River valley area. 

Here’s an article about sandhill cranes at the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge. 

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Featured Addresses
Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, 3121 Visitors Center Rd, Decatur, AL 35603, USA