The return of the cranes

ISLAND PARK — Sandhill cranes have returned to their mating and nesting grounds. They raucous, gravelly calls echo across the caldera. They came here in large flocks from wintering grounds in Texas, Utah, Mexico, and California. Soon after arrival, they split up into pairs established as recently as last fall and as many as 20 years ago — they mate for life. - By ELIZABETH LADEN