Endangered Whooping Cranes

 

I feel very honored to have been able to observe,
for the very first time, two Whooping Cranes,

(Grus americana), feeding in a meadow.

 

My photos are not wonderful, as they were some distance away.
Yes, a feeding station has been set up for them.
You can see the legs of the feeder on the left.
They need every advantage!!

 

 

But to me, they are beautiful pictures.

You see, Whooping Cranes have been on the endangered
species list since June of 1970.
In the 1930's, their population was down to just 18 birds.

I believe there only around 350 wild cranes to date.

With the direction that 'development' is taking,

we'll see more endangered birds and animals in our lifetime.

 

 

These beautiful, majestic birds stand almost 5 feet tall,

and are the largest birds in North America, with a wingspan of 7.5 feet.

 

 

I borrowed this image from the State of TX site so you could have a better look.

Each link I am providing will take you to a different site about Whooping Cranes.

 

This image is borrowed from learner.org.

 

Perhaps you remember seeing news stories and video of

conservationists assisting first year birds during migration

through the use of ultralight aircraft.
I think there is even a movie about it.
Here's one video of many.

 





 

Please take the time to visit the links provided for more information.

Their plight is a fascinating story.

 

I'd like to thank my daughter, from the bottom of my heart.

She went out of her way to drive 3 hours to the coast,

so I could see these birds.

(Remember the 'bug in my ear' story? THAT day!!)

(I think I'm linked to Wild Bird Wednesday)