The massive flocks of Sandhill Cranes that stop over in Nebraska on their way north are becoming a bigger and bigger tourist attraction. Tourists are so attracted to the cranes that the roads can actually become dangerous:
The biggest worry for area residents and police are bird watchers who may pay too much attention to birds and not enough to driving safely.
The concerns include drivers who stop vehicles in the middle of a road, rather than pull over to the side or in a designated parking area, or those who miss or ignore driveways posted as private property.
In those situations, Nebraska State Patrol Capt. Chris Kolb of Grand Island said, bird watchers only become safety hazards. “They can’t let the view of the birds overwhelm their common sense,” he said.
Remember, if you are taking a ride and see a flock of Sandhill Cranes at which you want to get a better look, pull over!
They have signs all over that area that warn that it’s illegal to pull over on the highway–aimed at bird watchers.
Yes, we are a crazy bunch of people who will stop anywhere to see that great bird. Not just cranes.
And remember that not all rental vans have headlights that come on automatically. Oops.
It is easy for local residents along the Platte in March to become tired of the photographers and birdwatchers who come to Kearney and Grand Island every year to see this great spectacle of nature. Visitors should be courteous on the roads and respectful of the laws. Locals and law enforcement should be thankful for the ton of money that the birding community pumps into these prairie economies each year. Cut the out of town guests a little slack.