A Winter Spectacle
Each winter, the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge transforms into a sanctuary for thousands of Sandhill Cranes and the rare Whooping Cranes. Established by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1938, the refuge spans 35,000 acres and serves as a vital waypoint for migratory birds. It’s a legacy of conservation, echoing the ethos of Theodore Roosevelt, who preserved millions of acres of natural habitats during his presidency.
The cranes arrive from northern Canada and the Great Lakes, traveling through Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee before reaching Alabama. While the first sighting in the state was in 1928, it wasn’t until the 1990s that Sandhill Cranes began frequenting the area in significant numbers. Today, their presence is breathtaking, with up to 20,000 Sandhill Cranes observed in the refuge and surrounding fields.
A Celebration to Remember
The 2025 Festival of the Cranes, set for January 10–12, promises an unforgettable experience as it kicks off with a Bird Walk lead by third generation farmer, Christopher Joe, On the 10th at 3pm. Visitors are invited to spend the weekend at the Observation Building near the refuge’s Visitor Center, where they can take in the sights and sounds up close.
The festival also offers a variety of events at the Princess Theatre, including the Wings to Soar Raptor Program, the play Thank You, Rachel, and musical performances by Muscle Shoals Sound. You can also visit the public library for presentations, the Cook Museum of Natural Science for over a dozen interactive exhibits, and the Alabama Center for the Arts to hear from prominent bird enthusiasts such as the “Bat Lady” Vicki Smith, Dr. James McClintock, and herpetologist Jimmy Stiles.
The “River City” also boasts an array of shopping, dining, and lodging options, all steeped in the area’s rich history and culture. Whether you’re strolling through the historic downtown or savoring local cuisine, Decatur invites you to immerse yourself in its charm.
Why It Matters
The Festival of the Cranes is more than an event; it’s a testament to the importance of conservation and community. The Whooping Cranes, once on the brink of extinction with only 20 birds remaining in the 1940s, now number over 600 thanks to dedicated efforts. Seeing these magnificent creatures alongside the Sandhill Cranes is a poignant reminder of what’s possible when people come together to protect the natural world.
As you plan your visit, don’t forget to explore the refuge’s nature trails and capture the beauty of the cranes in flight. For more resources, you can visit the Decatur Morgan County Tourism office at 350 Market Street for brochures, swag, and answers to all of your questions. Share your photos on Instagram or Facebook by tagging @VisitDecaturAL or @wheelerrefugeassociation.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or simply curious, the Festival of the Cranes in Decatur is an experience you won’t forget. It’s a story of nature’s resilience, the power of conservation, and the joy of coming together to celebrate the world around us. Mark your calendar for January 10-12th and prepare to be inspired.
Fun Facts
- Cranes are among the oldest living birds on the planet.
- The average crane stands 3 to 4 feet tall, weighs 6–12 pounds, and has a wingspan of up to 7 feet.
- Cranes can live anywhere from 20–40 years.
- According to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the earliest unequivocal Sandhill Crane fossil is estimated to be 2.5 million years old.
- Sandhill Cranes are omnivores, spending most of their daylight hours in areas where food is abundant, often walking several miles daily through dry pastures, fields, or marshes in search of food.
- Sandhill Cranes are monogamous and mate for life, becoming territorial during the breeding season. Each pair vigorously defends its nesting area.
