Valparaiso, IN – An Indiana wildlife rehabilitation center has welcomed an unusual new patient after a young Sandhill Crane was rescued from a northwest Indiana community.
According to Humane Indiana Wildlife, the month-old Sandhill Crane colt was recently admitted after residents in Chesterton became concerned about its behavior. Neighbors reported seeing the young bird repeatedly sitting in and near a roadway instead of staying active and following its parents.
Wildlife staff said the crane appeared extremely lethargic when it arrived at the facility.
According to Humane Indiana Wildlife, an examination found the young bird to be considerably underweight and suffering from a pronounced keel, an indication of poor body condition. The crane is now receiving medical care, including blood testing, fluids and antibiotics while rehabilitators work to determine what caused its condition.
The unusual patient joins another Sandhill Crane colt already receiving care at the facility. Wildlife experts say caring for two growing crane chicks at once presents unique challenges because of the space, food and specialized care required.
Staff members are hopeful the newest arrival can eventually recover and, if circumstances allow, be reunited with its family in the wild.
The rescue has attracted attention because Sandhill Cranes are among Indiana’s most recognizable large birds, standing several feet tall with long legs and necks. Young cranes, known as colts, typically remain close to their parents during their first months of life.
For now, the underweight youngster remains under close observation as wildlife rehabilitators monitor its progress and continue treatment.
The facility says the case highlights how residents can play an important role in wildlife conservation by reporting animals that appear sick, injured or behaving unusually.
