Overview

• First flocks began congregating in August at Sielmanns Naturlandschaft Wanninchen and other sites, according to regional experts.
• Early arrivals are childless pairs and bachelor groups, with family groups joining later in the season.
• Additional gray cranes from the far north are expected to arrive through September and October.
• Brandenburg lies on the west‑European route from Scandinavia through Germany to France and Spain, and cranes pause to rest and refuel.
• Stopovers depend on disturbance‑free roosts and adequate food, and low moor water levels heighten risks to nests and chicks; designated viewing points and guided events are available at the Kranichturm near Freesdorf and the Heinz Sielmann centre in Wanninchen.