BirdAnalyst
Species · California · BBS 2025 Release · 1966–2024

Sandhill Crane Population Trend in California

All statesWetland birds

Sandhill Crane in California has risen sharply: up 51% on the route-weighted index since 1972.

+51%Since 1972
26Routes In State
54Years

Notable Sandhill Crane Trends in California

long arc increasecomputed index

Sandhill Crane has risen sharply in California: up 51% on the route-weighted index since 1972.

Sandhill Crane Population Forecast in California

If the recent trend holds, Sandhill Crane in California is projected to rise about 86% by 2029 — from 0.42 in 2024 to a central estimate of 0.78 (95% range 0.34–1.2). A 5-year backtest shows a typical error of ±261.1%, with 20% of held-out values landing inside the 95% band.

+86%Change by 2029
0.78Projected 2029 index
0.34–1.295% range
±261.1%Backtest error
19702029
Projection of the recent trend (dashed) with 80/95% bands — a projection, not a prediction. Habitat, climate, and land use are not modeled.
YearProjected index95% low95% high
20250.740.311.2
20260.750.321.2
20270.760.331.2
20280.770.341.2
20290.780.341.2

Sandhill Crane Survey Routes in California

Routes recording Sandhill Crane in California.
Macdoel2620191978
Cedarville1820241974
Dorris1120191972
Hackamore620102000
Likely620241971
Paxton520242000
Sattley420241972
Yreka420191975
Ingalls420001974
Nubieber320181970
Crowder Flat320192002
Goumaz320111997
Clear Lk Res320181995
Eagle Lake220221971
Madeline220241997
Chester219971997
Honey Lake220241972
Davis Creek220241972
Chilcoot220232023
Last Chance220172008
Gazelle120211992
Oroville120102010
Little Truckee120231998
Genesee120232003
Ravendale119841978

Sandhill Crane Population Trend in Other States

alaskacoloradofloridageorgiaidahoillinoisindianaiowamassachusettsmichiganminnesotamississippimissourimontananebraskanevadanew-yorknorth-dakotaohiooregonpennsylvaniasouth-dakotautahwashingtonwisconsinwyoming

Source: USGS North American Breeding Bird Survey, retrieved 2026-05-22.