Sunday morning we were pleasantly surprised to find the HQ backyard full of cranes. The 2021 & 2022 HQ crew snuck in on us.
Lauren took a stroll on this foggy morning, while I eased into the day.
When we left for a refuge ride, the 10 Cranes were still hanging around headquarters.
We saw 14 Cranes while riding around the North Gautier Unit.
The Dougie Family were doing well, foraging in Brights Pasture.
We only saw 1 Crane that flew before we got close on the South Gautier Unit. We confirmed the G15 nest is active today. We will keep a watchful eye on it.
When we returned the Cranes had moved to the pen. They seemed to be getting along just fine.
It was another Sunday Funday.
We had another yard full of cranes at HQ on this Monday morning. Some of the 2021 and all of the 2022 HQ crew. They stayed around for most of the day.
We saw a Golden-crowned Kinglet outside the camper window while we were eating our lunch today.
We went and picked up the Ox Wagon from the shop and got her ready for a maiden tour. We took Rebecca, Tom, and some of his family on a North Gautier tour. We saw a few notable birds and 17 Sandhill Cranes while we were riding around. A great time was had by all.
We got back, relaxed at Camp Crane, then called it a day.
Tuesday, we watched the fire crew taking their pack test. They walk 3 miles in 45 minutes or less with a 45 pound vest. These guys and gals are in shape.
We went with Scott, Teresa, and Jake to set up the bow net at the North Gautier Pen. We did a little bit of clearing so we can hide in the woods and wait on Jabba, Dabba, and Dad to show up so we can catch and band them.
The afternoon, we made a much needed run to Sam's, something that we have been talking about doing for weeks.
Wednesday morning the cranes were back at HQ.
The Pileated Woodpecker was drilling out his nest in a tree near the Dees Trail.
A Red-shouldered Hawk was hanging around the fire center. He has been a frequent visitor.
We went to McClelland's retirement party at the bunkhouse. We had plenty of good food and good folks that had a lot of nice things to say about him. He will surely be missed.
Thursday, we got the boat out, cleaned it up, and took it for a ride on the river. We saw some cool critters along the way.
After we checked on the eagle nest and confirmed that it was active we turned around and headed back to Camp Crane.
After lunch, we checked on the eagle nest at Whitetop Pasture and found it active as well.
We had 10 of the HQ releases fly down the bayou then circle back over Camp Crane before heading to the North Gautier Unit for their roost. They were quite striking with the sun reflection on them.
Friday we worked in the visitor center. The HQ 10 were foraging in the front of the visitor center when we opened. After a bit, they literally flew the coup.
Saturday, the HQ 10 were enjoying the corn at the feeder when we opened the visitor center. They stayed around for most of the day.
Around lunch time, we saw a couple of eagles tussling as they flew over the savanna. The point was made and one of them left the area.
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