GAP Analysis Predicted Distribution Map

Sandhill Crane (Grus canadensis)

Species Code: GRCA

This is an "at risk" species

Legend:
= Core Habitat
= Marginal Habitat

Breeding Range Map
The green area shows the predicted habitats for breeding only. The habitats were identified using 1991 satellite imagery, Breeding Bird Atlas (BBA), other datasets and experts throughout the state, as part of the Washington Gap Analysis Project. Habitats used during non-breeding months and migratory rest-stops were not mapped.

Metadata (Data about data or how the map was made)

Click to enlarge distribution map

Other maps & Information:

Breeding Bird Atlas
NatureMapping observations
during breeding season
NatureMapping observations
throughout the year

This species is very local at Conboy Lake National Wildlife Refuge and near Signal Peak on the Yakima Indian Reservation. No other nesting areas are currently known in Washington.

Good habitat in the core areas of use were all marshy areas, irrigated fields, and grassy areas associated with the above two sites, which were mostly in the Interior Douglas-fir zone, with parts of the lower Subalpine Fir zone and upper Ponderosa Pine zone.

Sandhill Cranes formerly bred in wetlands on both sides of the Cascade crest. Old nest records also come from the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge. Several old records have included the 1860 assertion that cranes were "common summer residents in Washington Territory", nesting in prairies and wetlands to 6000 feet. Other records cited come from Coulee City, Camas Prairie, and at 4500 feet near Signal Peak; the same location where they currently breed. A 1996 late-June record from Atkins Lake could indicate a third breeding area in Washington, or it could be summering nonbreeders.

Translated from the Washington Gap Analysis Bird Volume by Uchenna Bright
Text edited by Gussie Litwer
Webpage designed by Dave Lester