Sandhill Crane Field Trip

Prepare yourself for a primeval experience. Join the Nature Journal Club for a field trip to the Sacramento Valley to draw and study the Sandhill Cranes that migrate to the area for the winter. We will meet at the Cosumnes River Preserve Visitor’s Center and explore wetlands through the morning. In the afternoon we will head to Statten Island Road to watch the fly-in of vast numbers of cranes before nightfall. Though the program ends at 4:00 PM, sunset will be at 4:53 PM, this is often a magical time with the cranes. Consider leaving yourself a little wiggle room in your schedule should you want to stay and sketch a little more.

Need a few tips on drawing cranes before you go? Check out this video and these three blog posts: basic crane lines, crane anatomy, and painting cranes in the landscape, 

Bring your journaling supplies, a portable stool, binoculars and spotting scope (if you have one), a potluck lunch treat to share and you own bowl and spoon. Dress in layers as it may be cold. $20 suggested donation, no registration necessary. If rain is a possibility, check johnmuirlaws.com the morning of the event to see if the trip is canceled or diverted to another (dry) location.