Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

21st Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
The Hunter - Sandhill Crane in Lodi California

Sandhill Cranes have been wintering in California for thousands of years. They roost in the shallow waters of the Delta near Lodi, California. Every night they rest in the water as protection from predators, they can hear them coming through the water which allows them to escape. Every sunrise they fly out to find food and then return at sunset. The crane in this image is focus on hunting for the next meal. The reflection clearly shows the lower leg.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 11.2020
Date Uploaded: 11.2023
Photo Location: Woodbridge, California, United States of America
Camera: Canon EOS 70D
Copyright: © Dean Busquaert