Migration of Siberian Crane Leucogeranus leucogeranus in darkness

Abstract

This study aimed to identify whether Siberian Crane Leucogeranus leucogeranus regularly fly after sunset, and what determines a cranes' decision to continue its migration in darkness. Based on observations in East Siberia (2012–2021), 4–69% of cranes passed over observation points during the night, regardless of the presence of positive environmental factors suitable for cranes, such as wetland-rich areas, and continued in the dark towards areas with inappropriate habitat for their landing. This suggests that their decision to continue migrating after nightfall is induced by internal factors and contributes insights into the phenomenon of nocturnal crane migrations.