Othello, WA 04-08-2017

Although we missed the Othello Crane Festival, my mom and I decided to meet my sister in Othello for a fun day of exploring the area in hopes of seeing sandhill cranes that hadn't continued on their north migration.  I had never been to Othello before and was charmed by the busy little town and friendly people.

We met at the Old Hotel and Caboose Interpretive Center... complete with authentic tumbleweed.

The lady there told us where sandhill cranes might be found, and we headed out into the countryside.

I loved driving around the Othello area.  The country roads were so quiet and empty, wildflowers were blooming, and when we stepped out of the vehicle the wind whistled through the power lines and barbed wire fences.

We lucked out and found sandhills at one of the first areas we were told to check.  What amazing birds!  They are so tall, and that dove gray and red combo is very striking.  We could hear them too and their warbling cooing call was very distinctive and wonderful to hear.

The landscape included tall sweeping hills, little buttes, canyons and was dotted with lakes and canals.

There were also some interesting signs.

As we drove around birding we saw a lot of other birds as well.

Killdeer

Meadowlark

Curlew

Yellow headed blackbird.  I had never seen these before.

Apparently these guys thought they were invisible if they hunkered down in the reeds.

Great egret

It was a fantastic day out and one I would love to repeat.