Sandhill Crane Evening Fly-in Viewing

Would you like to learn about the sandhill cranes that spend the winter here in the San Joaquin Valley? If so, then join us for an evening Sandhill Crane Fly-In on Saturday, October 17, at 4:30 p.m. at the Merced NWR. Meet at the main entrance parking area for a presentation about the natural history of sandhill cranes -- the bird naturalist Aldo Leopold called "wildness incarnate." Afterwards, participants will caravan around the tour route in their vehicles to an ideal spot to watch the cranes arrive as they return to refuge wetlands to roost for the night. The event should last about 2 hours. Dress warmly. Bring mosquito repellent, along with binoculars and spotting scopes if you have them. There is no need to sign up. For more information, call our visitor center at 209-826-3517, or visit the refuge website at www.fws.gov/refuge/merced/