Thousands Of Sandhill Cranes Invade Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge In Alabama Every Winter And It’s A Sight To Be Seen

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

Visit the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge’s webpage for more information about the migration of the sandhill cranes in Alabama.

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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.