December Field Trip: Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area

Saturday, December 7, 2024
12:30 PM 5:30 PM 12:30 17:30

Jasper Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area (map)

Google Calendar ICS

This has normally been the November field trip, but the peak Sandhill Crane count has been a couple weeks later for the last couple of years. On December 7, 2024 we will be traveling to Jasper-Pulaski Fish & Wildlife Area (JPFWA) to witness the gathering of thousands of Sandhill Cranes. This is one of Indiana's greatest natural spectacles. Approximately an hour before sunset large flocks of Sandhill Cranes kite into JPFWA's Goose Pasture to gab and socialize.

We will start our afternoon at Kiwani Marsh in Kankakee Fish & Wildlife Area to look for waterfowl. From there it is approximately 30 minutes to JPFWA. We may make a brief stop along the way to look for a Golden Eagle.

After viewing the Sandhills we will possibly head for dinner and socializing in North Judson. You may join us for all or any part of our trip. Dress for the weather (layers are best) and bring your binoculars. It is often cold and windy on the Sandhill Crane viewing stand. You may also wish to pack a lunch or snacks. It is a moderate walk from the parking area to the Sandhill Crane viewing area. There is also limited handicapped parking closer to the viewing stand and the viewing stand is handicapped accessible.

Here is our itinerary (all times are EST):

12:30 p.m. – Meet at the north end of Kohl’s parking lot on Ireland and Miami in South Bend for carpooling or to caravan.

1:45 p.m. – Arrive at Kankakee Fish & Wildlife Area Kiwani Marsh, 4320 Toto Rd., North Judson, IN. Here is a pindrop for Kiwani Marsh: 41°15'36.0"N 86°47'24.7"W, https://maps.app.goo.gl/rQVSNUuDGTrLfomj8.

3:00-3:15 p.m. – Leave Kiwani Marsh for approximately 30-minute drive to JPFWA Sandhill Crane Viewing Area.

3:45-4:00 p.m. – Arrive at JPFWA, 5353 County Rd. 1650 W., Medaryville, IN.

We will stay at JPFWA until dusk. Sunset is approximately 5:30 p.m. We will then depart for North Judson for possible dinner. Dinner arrangements will be decided the day of the field trip.

Any questions call, text (text is best), or email me, Carol Goodall: (574) 276-7249, fieldtrips@sbeaudubon.org.