They wake up just before dawn. Common Cranes (Grus grus) are very early risers. They soon fly off to neighbouring fields (sometimes several dozen miles away) to feed on seeds and roots. At the end of the day, they return to the water and spend the night in groups. The cranes sleep with their heads under their wings, but “watchers” remain vigilant, ready to sound the alarm at the slightest threat. Watching their morning flight is always a moment of intense beauty.