Join us for the 8th Annual Kansas Crane Festival, a celebration of one of nature’s great migrations. Each fall, thousands of Sandhill Cranes and the rare, critically endangered Whooping Crane, pass through central Kansas on their journey along the Central Flyway. Festival participants will experience this spectacular migration firsthand while exploring the wetlands and wildlife of Quivira National Wildlife Refuge, one of the most important stopover sites for migratory birds in the region.

What makes Quivira special?

Quivira National Wildlife Refuge (QNWR or Quivira) is a unique oasis of wetlands and grasslands in the heart of Kansas. Its inland salt marshes provide essential food, water, and resting habitat for migrating birds. During the fall migration, the refuge can host thousands of Sandhill Cranes along with a variety of waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds, and other wildlife. For crane watchers, the early morning spectacle is especially memorable as thousands of cranes take flight from the wetlands at sunrise.

More Than Cranes

While cranes are the stars of the festival, there is much more to discover at Quivira and throughout central Kansas. Highlights include:

• Waterfowl & Shorebirds: Look beyond the cranes for ducks, geese, shorebirds, and other wetland species.
• Songbirds & Raptors: Sparrows, kinglets, hawks, eagles, and other species add to the diversity of fall birding at the refuge.
• Kansas Communities: Experience the hospitality of Sterling, Lyons, and surrounding communities while connecting with fellow birders and nature enthusiasts.

Come celebrate the cranes, explore Kansas wetlands, and experience one of the natural wonders of the Great Plains!