Regina’s Wascana Park, usually a haven for geese, is currently abuzz with the presence of a solitary sandhill crane, drawing the attention of bird enthusiasts like Dacie Matchett-Orb and her 11-year-old son Chevy.
Last week, eager to catch a glimpse of the crane reported near the Saskatchewan Science Centre, the duo ventured out but were initially disappointed by its absence. However, their luck turned when they later spotted the distinctive red-crowned bird near the Conexus Arts Centre, prompting a return visit after Chevy finished school.
Excited by the sighting, Matchett-Orb recounted her son’s long-standing passion for bird photography, which he shares with his grandmother. Equipped with a zoom lens to maintain a safe distance, Chevy managed to capture impressive shots of the crane, expressing a desire to print them for his grandmother.
According to Bonnie Dell, the executive director of the Wildlife Rescue Society of Saskatchewan, the sandhill crane is likely injured, hindering its ability to fly long distances, a behavior uncommon for this species in urban environments.
Dell emphasized the importance of leaving the bird undisturbed, expressing concerns over recent incidents of people and dogs approaching the crane, causing unnecessary stress that depletes its vital energy reserves needed for survival during the cold season.
To ensure the crane’s well-being, the Wildlife Rescue Society of Saskatchewan, in collaboration with Salt Haven, is coordinating efforts to capture the bird for proper care. Dell noted that volunteers are closely monitoring the crane, with plans in place to address its condition, potentially involving euthanasia if deemed necessary under provincial regulations governing non-releasable wildlife.
In light of the situation, Dell urged the public to refrain from actively seeking out the bird and avoid disclosing its whereabouts on social media to minimize further disturbances to the crane’s recovery process.