SANDHILL CRANES ON THE PLATTE RIVER

Unit for Intermediate or Primary Students

(To be taught during spring migration)

Objectives:

1. Student will know characteristics and life cycle of sandhill crane
2. Student will comprehend relationship of Nebraska’s Platte River to the life cycle of the sandhill crane.
3. Student will know some issues concerning loss of water in the Platte River as related to the cranes.

Background: Teacher should read the information provided on this website and on the links to National Geographic Website and Nebraska Game & Parks Commission.

Materials: Pictures of sandhill cranes from National Geographic Website;

Large map of United States, showing Canada and Mexico.

12 x 18 white drawing paper, colored papers, crayons, scissors, glue

Directions to the game MIGRATION HEADACHE (from ProjectWild)

16 hoola hoops

food tokens

Day 1

Teacher gives an introduction about the presence of the cranes in the Platte River Valley.

          Questions are asked: What is a sandhill crane? Why do the cranes come to the Platte River every spring?

          Through discussion and teacher input, students hear about the migration of the cranes, and basic information about their life cycle.

          Teacher plays the short videos from National Geographic Website, showing students the behavior of the cranes and the sound of their warble.

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