What an intelligent-looking model!

Wow! That's two stunning birds today! This one appears to have loads of personality, and I agree about the look of intelligence. Great choices, Gath! Great photo -- kudos to the photographer.

Looks scary to me, sizing up the photographer's nose.

That's your phobia talking Judy, but...
The top of his head is pretty though...

Is it's beak supposed to look like that? I don't think I ever saw one in person.

what an amazing shot! I've certainly never been that close to one of these!

So who's a pretty boy! Great photo;

Oooooooooooooooh that's totally awesomex

Great picture, thank you.

I'm with you Judy, a bit up close and confronting for me!!

I was totally unnerved by the eyes when I had completed it, but fantastic shot

I'm with bluey and Judy. Waaay to up close and personal for me! Fun puzzle, tho.

If you google sandhill crane, there are some really good photos, not quite so close-up. They can grow to 48" long, and they can do some damage with their beak if cornered. Interesting creatures, for sure. I think they're really pretty!

In the late Fall and early Spring, these birds fly over our farm by the thousands every day, some stopping to rest and dine overnight in the neighborhood. We're also starting to get a few Whooping Cranes overhead, too, but not as low as the Sandhills.

Glad I'm not the only weiner. And googling them only made it worse, Kay -- those are some big birds! Heidi, you must wear a sturdy hat!