This is a "community nest" in Kensington Metropark in Milford, Michigan. Throughout the day one can see Great Blue Heron and Swan families visiting and preening. But in the evening, this crane family had dibs. It was perfect for them--surrounded by shallow water, and large enough so that lurking snappers couldn't grab anyone.

The colts like to sleep under their mother's wings. I couldn't believe that at this size they could still get under, but after considerable jostling, they succeeded.