Return of the Sandhill Crane Celebration Weekend 2012

The Middle Rio Grande Valley is visited by thousands of majestic Sandhill Cranes as they return to make the Bosque their winter home. A population can also be found in extreme northeastern Siberia. The reappearance of these large birds is viewed, photographed and celebrated across New Mexico every fall. The Open Space Visitor Center, tucked next to the river, is hosting the Return of the Sandhill Crane Celebration this weekend. Festivities stretch from early morning until late afternoon and include short films, children's activities, live music, Tai Chi, walks, storytelling and more. Visit tinyurl.com/sandhillcranes for more information and a full schedule of events. (Emily Aragon)