27 April, 2011

Whooping Crane

Scientific Name: Grus americana

Population Estimate: 50-250, Endangered status

Range / Habitat: Found in fields near water. Summers on reserves in Canada and Wisconsin. Winters on reserves in Texas and Florida.

Field Notes: Tallest bird in North America. All-white crane with black wing-tips and red forehead and cheek. Call is a single, bugle-like note. Sandhill Crane is overall grey / brown with a distinctive rattling call.

Personal Notes: Seen in captivity at the International Crane Foundation near Necedah NWR. Only 15 adults of this species remained in 1938, but it has been increased to current levels through active breeding programs and guided migration via ultralight planes.

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