Kansas Crane Festival

Participants will explore Quivira National Wildlife Refuge through a series of five thoughtfully selected stops showcasing the refuge’s diverse habitats and exceptional birding opportunities. Stops include the lookout tower and wildlife viewing blind, the north end of Little Salt Marsh, and Migrant’s Mile, where an expert guide will lead a short walk in search of migratory songbirds such as sparrows and kinglets. Additional stops include 170th Road, a productive area for waterbirds, shorebirds, ducks, and raptors, and a final location offering the best opportunities to view cranes, particularly at sunrise or sunset. The order of stops will vary to align with sunrise or sunset timing and maximize wildlife viewing. Participants may choose a self-guided tour or reserve a seat on a guided van tour for an enhanced experience with knowledgeable birding guides.

This event is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all ages and abilities. Participants should be able to navigate a few stairs at the college buildings. If a guided tour is selected, the ability to safely enter and exit a large passenger van will be necessary. Otherwise, all walking paths are even and easily traversable.