Birding in Waukesha County I came across a pair of Sandhill Cranes. They were finding things to eat and along with that I noticed they have started painting themselves. That took place at another location like a ditch or something where they get that orange brown soil to paint on their feathers. Painting their feathers is something they do so when they nest they will blend in with their surroundings. It was a beautiful day with plenty of sunshine, lows winds and temps around 48 degrees. Images were taken on March 12, 2025.
One of the Sandhill Cranes…some painting on the feathers there…
Sandhill Cranes with more painting done on their feathers…
More looks at the painting…
Preening…not sure how long these two have been back…
