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| Date: |
March 28,
2007 - Entry 1 |
Reporter: |
Liz Condie |
| Subject: |
Craniac Medical Alert J |
Location: |
Main Office |
We thought you would enjoy reading the letter we
received today from long time OM supporter Charlie Robinson.
Dear OM,
I want to thank you for sending me some Craniac Patches to try.
Since this is a new product I used it in various manners and
conditions for a trial period. I must say it did help, but I
found that at times there were some adverse reactions you might
want to warn Craniacs about.
1) When I wore the patch on my lower leg I had a tendency to
walk in mud or wade into puddles.
2) When I wore it on my upper thigh or buttock I had the
irresistible desire to strut around.
3) When I placed it on my arm I kept wanting to flap my upper
limbs.
4) When I wore it on my forehead, people kept asking if I was
alright or, how I you hurt myself. Also, I found I was inclined
to raise my head and trumpet like a Whooper at the most in
appropriate times.
My best advice to fellow Craniacs is for them to buy Craniac
t-shirts, or hats, or other OM gear. Then they can wear them
proudly in public and perhaps influence others to become OM
members or donate to this worthy cause.
Yours truly,
Patuxent Charlie |
 |
|
| Date: |
March 27,
2007 - Entry 1 |
Reporter: |
Liz Condie |
| Subject: |
Eastern Migratory Population Update |
Location: |
Main Office |
This update was compiled from information
provided by the Tracking and Monitoring Team consisting of Tally Love,
Stacy Kerley (ICF), and Richard Urbanek (USF&WS).
* = Female; DAR = direct autumn release. Estimated size of the Eastern
Migratory Population (EMP) is 61* individuals, 35 males and 26 females.
(*Number has been reduced by one. In their last report, trackers noted
that 524 was 'missing' and that mortality was a possibility.)
"Only 10 birds, all in Florida, were confirmed as remaining on their
wintering areas at the end of the week," said Dr. Richard Urbanek. He
added, "At least 29 whooping cranes had completed migration to the core
reintroduction area in Central Wisconsin by March 26th."
Still in Florida: 105, 509, 510*, 511, 512, 516, 519*, 523, 615, DAR627.
In Wisconsin: (on the Necedah NWR unless otherwise stated)
- The First Family (211, 217* and W601*)
began migration from Hernando County, FL on 23 February and arrived
by 20 March. Observation during a March 23rd aerial survey indicated
that the W601* had separated from her parents by this date. The juvenile
was observed alone at Site 3 on 26 March and roosted that night nearby.
- 101
was confirmed back on 26 March. He was observed alone on 26 and 27
March. The status of his mate, 202* is unknown.
- 102*
and 307 were observed unison-calling and in territorial behavior on 26
March.
- 107*
was reported in Adams County on 26 March.
- 201*
and 306 were confirmed in Juneau County during an aerial survey on 23
March (awaiting visual confirmation of 201* due to nonfunctional
transmitter).
- 205
left Pasco County, FL on 22 or 23 February and arrived by 19 March.
- 213
and 218* were detected in flight over Columbia County on 23 March and
completed migration later that day.
- 216
was found on 26 March, and with 412 at Site 4 on 27 March. He had
separated from 102.
- 303
and 317 were confirmed back during an aerial survey on 23 March.
- 307
remained on or near Necedah NWR during the week. He arrived by 12 March.
- No.
310 arrived by 19 March and remained there during the week.
- Nos.
312* and 316 were detected in flight over Marquette County during an
aerial survey on 23 March. They apparently arrived in Juneau County
later that day or shortly thereafter.
- No.
313* had been wintering alone on Goose Pond FWA, Greene County, Indiana,
through January. She was next reported after completing migration to
Necedah NWR by 12 March. She was observed on 26 March apparently
associating with 310 and 205.
- 401
and 520* arrived by the night of 22 March but were no longer present
when this location was checked on 26 March.
- 402,
403 were confirmed roosting on Necedah NWR on the night of 26 March.
- 412
(nonfunctional transmitter) was observed the March 2 with 216.
- DAR528* and DAR532 were confirmed on Necedah NWR during 23 March’s
aerial survey. DAR532 was not found when the refuge was checked on 26
March.
- A pair
observed in Wood County on 19 March may have been 212 and 419*. To be
confirmed. Presumably this same pair was later reported in wetlands some
distance away.
Still on Spring Migration:
- 209* and 416 were next reported with a small number of Sandhills in
Newton County, IN during 13-15 March.
- 309*
and 407 roosted in Randolph County, IN 26 March.
- 301 and 311 apparently left Colleton County, SC on
migration 24 March.
- 318 remained in Georgetown County, until 19 March. He
may have been the Whooping crane spotted in Kalamazoo County, MI on 21
March.
- 408,
501*, and 514 left Hillsborough County, FL 19 March. No subsequent
reports have been received.
- 415*
is believed to have been observed in Madison County, FL 19 February. Her
transmitter is nonfunctional, and she cannot be tracked. No subsequent
reports have been received.
- 420*
remained in Jackson County, IN at least through 6 March. No subsequent
reports have been received.
- 502,
503, and 507* were still in Jackson County, Indiana as of 27 March.
- 505
and 506 have been in Cumberland County, TN since 17 March and through
the week.
- 508*
roosted in Knox Co., IL 23 March. She had last been confirmed in
Tangipahoa Parish, LA 4 March.
- DAR527
was reported in Jasper-Pulaski, IN 18 March.
- DAR533
roosted in Oceana County, MI 26 March.
- DAR626
and DAR628 roosted in Davidson County, TN 26 March.
The partnership thanks Theresa Dailey, Gator Gates, Bryan Woodward, and
Rich King (FWS), Jim Bergens (Indiana DNR), Dean Harrigal (South
Carolina DNR), Larry Armstrong (Tennessee WRA), Randy Myers (Louisiana
Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries), Anne Lacy (ICF), Bryson McCord, and
Dan Kaiser for tracking or monitoring assistance. |
| Date: |
March 23,
2007 - Entry 3 |
Reporter: |
Liz Condie |
| Subject: |
A Family Effort |
Location: |
Main Office |
We are sending out a special thank you to Abby
Studnicka and daughters Nadia and Eve in Illinois. Here's why....
Hi,
My name is Abby Studnicka, and I just wanted to let you know just how
inspirational the entire crew at OM has been in my daughter’s lives. My
nine year old, Nadia, has been studying the Whooping crane
reintroduction for quite some time now with our home schooling. She was
at the computer at 6:00 each morning to read the field journals, and
follow her beloved class of 2006.
We were all of course devastated by their loss, and vowed to find a way
to help. We have set a goal of making 1,000 origami cranes, and selling
them for $2 each. When our goal is reached we will donate all the money
to OM. As of today, we have made over 800 cranes, and $1,200. We have
been extremely busy, going door to door, selling at our local grocery
store, 5 local businesses carry them, nature center concerts, schools,
and many friends and family have all contributed.
We are invited to set up at the annual Illinois Audubon conference in
April, and an Earth Day celebration. I know our message about the cranes
has reached many, many people. The article written about my girls can
be read if you go to the Journey North site, and click on the media
coverage part. http://www.learner.org/jnorth/tm/crane/Studnicka_Home.html
I am hoping that after we reach our goal, the girls could personally
deliver a check to the crew in Wisconsin this summer. Thank you for your
dedication, and for being a hero to my kids.
Sincerely, Abby Studnicka
Visit Craniac Kids, IL
Not enough can be said about the gratitude OM feels
for the many of you who have turned your hands to creative projects to
support our work. We are deeply appreciative of all the the imagination
and hard work that folks like Abby, Nadia, and Eve put in to help
Whooping cranes.
Horray for all Craniacs!!!!
 |
Nadia and Eve's origami crane 'production
line'. |
|
| Date: |
March 23,
2007 - Entry 2 |
Reporter: |
Liz Condie |
| Subject: |
Wood Buffalo/Aransas population update |
Location: |
Main Office |
Tom Stehn, USF&WS Whooping crane coordinator,
reported that on his March 14th aerial of the Aransas National Wildlife
Refuge and surrounding areas found 75 birds; 64 adults and 11 chicks.
Pilot Jim Bredy and observer Patrick Walther accompanied Tom as the
crane observations were recorded during a scheduled monthly waterfowl
survey. The total flock size remains an estimated 237.
"The highlight of the flight," said Tom, "was finding the North
Cottonwood family group that had apparently been exposed to oiled water
during the fall migration and had gotten stained. I had been unable to
find them on my last two flights. I identified the family from a color
band seen on the right leg of one of the adults. Although I could not
get a look at their bellies, no staining was apparent on the feathers on
the upper leg, indicating that the birds have lost some of the staining
present last fall."
Tom noted that his priority for this last flight
was to look for any juvenile mortality that may have occurred, and to
document use of uplands and prescribed burns. He said that no evidence
of crane mortality had been discovered this winter.
"I hope to conduct flights every 7-10 days in April to document the
upcoming migration," stated Tom. "So far, 3 Whooping cranes were
observed starting the migration on March 8th from Aransas, and a single
Whooping crane was confirmed as being on the Platte River in Nebraska
March 16th. This single may be the Whooping crane, now in its third
winter, that has never been to Aransas and was seen this past winter in
January near Bay City, Texas. |
| Date: |
March 23,
2007 - Entry 1 |
Reporter: |
Bev Paulan |
| Subject: |
Update from Florida |
Location: |
Florida |
Time is a funny thing. It either drags or it speeds
by so fast you get whiplash. As my time here in Florida winds down, it
is definitely speeding up.
The longer our list becomes, the less time we have to do things, or so
it seems. Both travel pens have been sent back north packed up with all
the supplies for the summer and the '07 migration. New wheels have
replaced the spares on both the aircraft trailer and the second travel
pen. You may remember that both of these trailers lost wheels on the '06
migration, just after we crossed into Florida.
Brooke is busy overhauling the new training trikes that will be used at
Patuxent. Mufflers on our flying trikes have been removed, sent away for
coating, and the engines are being tuned in preparation for the new
season. The old engines will be used on the trikes at Patuxent for
circle pen training as they are now for ground work only and will never
be flown again. Interns are being sought, found, interviewed, and
prepared for the start of the season.
So, as you can see, things are not all fun and games here in paradise.
Not to mention the fact that we have to do all this in 75-80 degree
temps, with clear skies and light breezes (what tortureJ)
- but those breezes haven't been strong enough to chase away all of the
bugs!
One of the great parts of this job is the people. Being down here where
people love to vacation allowed us to meet some wonderful folks. Just in
the past three weeks, we have been treated to visits from Caroline and
Augie Wirkus from Eau Claire, WI, Charlie and Tracey Muise and their son
Allan from Georgia, and OM's top cover pilots extraordinaire, Don and
Paula Lounsbury. It was a great pleasure seeing these people, making new
friends, and catching up with old friends and family. Thanks to all for
the visits.
Last but not least, we keep up with the birds. It has been a nerve
wracking season and every day we wait for news of 615 and how he is
doing. I know I will finally breathe easier when I know his journey has
begun.
Time to go back to cleaning the trailer and packing up my belongings for
my next step. Thanks Chass - and look out Patuxent – here I come. |
| Date: |
March 20,
2007 - Entry 2 |
Reporter: |
Liz Condie |
| Subject: |
Update – Eastern Migratory Population to March 17 |
Location: |
Main Office |
This update was
compiled from information provided by the Tracking and Monitoring Team
consisting of Tally Love, Stacy Kerley (ICF), and Richard Urbanek (USF&WS).
* = Female; DAR = direct autumn release. 524 is 'missing' and mortality
is a possibility. (**See note below**) The Eastern Migratory Population
(EMP) therefore consists of either 62 or 61 individuals, 36/35 males and
26 females.
Distribution at the end of the week was:
2 – Alabama: 213 and 218*
0-1 – Louisiana: 508* (Last confirmed Mar.4; no subsequent
reports have been received.)
3 - South Carolina: 301* and 311; 318.
1 – Tennessee: DAR528*
0 - 4 – Indiana (Wintering) 209* and 416 (Last observed Mar. 12)
17 – Florida: 105, 402, 403, 412, 415* has non-functional
transmitter and was last reported Feb.19th, 509, 510*, 511, 512, 516,
519*, 523, 524 has non-functional transmitter and his status is unknown.
DAR 626, DAR627, DAR628. 615 is still in Florida.
**523 remains in Levy County, FL.524’s transmitter is non-functional
and his status is unknown. He was last observed with 523 on February16.
The next observation of 523 was March 1 during an aerial survey and he
was alone at that time. Richard Urbanek noted that voluntary separation
of the two wintering cranes during the interim, although possible, is
unlikely. “The area they were in is former cypress swamp, cutover many
decades ago. Because of vegetation and water conditions,” he said, “if
524 died there, finding his remains without the assistance of a
transmitter would be almost impossible.”**
On Spring Migration
Bird |
Began Migration |
From |
Last Known Location |
DAR532 |
~ March 18 |
Highlands County, FL |
Levy Cty, FL |
505, 506 |
March 13 |
Citrus County, FL |
|
502*, 503,
507* |
March 18 |
Levy County,
FL |
|
408, 501*,514 |
March 19 |
Hillsborough
County, FL |
|
401, 520* |
March 13 |
|
|
309*, 407 |
March 19 |
Alachua
County, FL |
|
307 |
March 8 |
Alachua
County, FL |
|
101, 202* |
March 13 |
Citrus County,
FL |
|
102*, 216 |
March 5 |
Pasco County,
FL |
Greene County,
IN |
107* |
March ? |
Meigs/Rhea
Counties, TN |
Starke County,
IN |
201*, 306 |
March 7 |
Volusia
County, FL |
|
312*, 316 |
March 5 |
Marion County,
FL |
|
DAR533* |
|
Meigs County,
TN |
Jackson Cty,
IN |
DAR527* |
~February 12 |
Meigs County,
TN |
Jasper-Pulaski, IN |
303*, 317 |
~March 5 |
Marion County,
FL |
|
420* |
|
Greene County,
IN |
Jackson
County, IN |
Confirmed migrating
Whooping cranes were reported from Tennessee (1), Indiana (6), and
Illinois (1). An unidentified Whooping crane was reported with Sandhills
in McHenry County, Illinois on 12 March.
9 – Wisconsin
205, 310 arrived Necedah NWR ~March 19.
211, 217*, and Wild601* arrived Necedah NWR ~March 20. (The First
Family!)
313*, 307 arrived Necedah NWR ~March 12.
212 and 419* (verification pending) arrived Wood County ~March 19.
”Large migration movements of Sandhill cranes occurred in Indiana,
Illinois, and Wisconsin during the week,” said Dr. Richard Urbanek.
“Reports of Whooping cranes in addition to those noted in this week’s
report were received from all three states, but most species
identifications were not verified, and identities of those sightings
believed to be Whooping cranes could not be confirmed.”
Thanks to Theresa Dailey, Gator Gates, Bryan Woodward, and Rich King (FWS),
Jim Bergens and Brad Feaster (Indiana DNR), Dean Harrigal (South
Carolina DNR), Larry Armstrong (Tennessee WRA), Randy Myers (Louisiana
Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries), Marty Folk (Florida FWCC), Kelly
Maguire (ICF), Wayne Hall (Wisconsin DNR), Bryson McCord, and Dan Kaiser
for tracking or monitoring assistance.
OM is receiving lots of emails reporting sightings of Whooping cranes on
the move northward. These reports are much appreciated and a great help
to the Tracking Team. Please continue to report your sightings. |
| Date: |
March 20, 2007
- Entry 1 |
Reporter: |
Liz Condie |
| Subject: |
First Family arrives at Necedah! |
Location: |
Main Office |
News just in..... The First Family, (211, 217* and
Wild 601) along with at least 6 other Whooping cranes in the Eastern
Migratory Population have returned to the core reintroduction area in
central Wisconsin.
The information from the weekly report from the Tracking Team is being
compiled and will be posted this evening. |
| Date: |
March 16, 2007
- Entry 1 |
Reporter: |
Liz Condie |
| Subject: |
307
and 313 complete spring migration! |
Location: |
Main Office |
There is still snow on the ground, but 307 (departed
Alachua County, FL on March 8) and female 313* have
made their way back to the Necedah National Wildlife Refuge in
Wisconsin.
Biologists at Necedah NWR picked up the radio signals of 307 and 313*,
two birds from the ultralight-led Class of 2003, on March 15.
313* wintered alone on Goose
Pond State Fish and Wildlife Area in Greene County, IN after losing her
mate, 208, in late December. 208 was found under a power line in a
marshy area in Green County. Immobile with a broken leg and in shock, he
was taken to the Indianapolis Zoo veterinary hospital where he later
died.
According to
trackers, at least 17 other Whooping cranes in the Eastern Migratory
Population have also begun their spring migration, including the First
Family. (211, 217*, and their chick, now a juvenile, Wild601) |
| Date: |
March 14, 2007
- Entry 1 |
Reporter: |
The OM Team |
| Subject: |
Update on Review of
Unusual Mortality Event |
Location: |
Main Office |
WCEP's Project
Direction Team has undertaken a comprehensive review of the events
leading up to the February 1st loss of 17 Whooping cranes at the
Chassahowitzka pen site as the result of the severe overnight storms
that swept through the area.
All facts surrounding the mortality, including weather reports; tidal
information; lightning strike data; necropsy results; and firsthand site
reports from personnel, have been compiled for the Team's review.
Thus far, two half-day telephone conference call meetings have been held
to assessed and evaluated all available data with a view to producing
recommendations for any necessary changes to protocols, procedures,
facilities, or pen location, that might minimize risk of future losses
due to extreme storm events.
The review and recommendation development process continues. Once
concluded, the Project Direction Team will produce a Summary Report,
including any resulting proposed changes. The Summary Report will be
released to the public via a posting to the Whooping Crane Eastern
Partnership’s website.
Operation Migration along with our eight WCEP partners appreciates
everyone's understanding and patience. Fast is easy; fact based, well
thought out decisions take time. |
| Date: |
March 13, 2007
- Entry 1 |
Reporter: |
Liz Condie |
| Subject: |
Eastern
Migratory Population update to Mar. 10 |
Location: |
Main Office |
This
update was compiled from information provided by the Tracking and
Monitoring Team consisting of Tally Love, Stacy Kerley, and Richard
Urbanek (USF&WS).
* = Females; DAR = direct autumn release. The Eastern Migratory
Population (EMP) consists of 62 individuals, 36 males and 26 females.
Distribution at the end of the week was:
0-2 – Georgia: 212 and 419* (Last observed Feb.19. No subsequent
checks have been made.
2 – Alabama: 213 and 218*
0-1 – Louisiana: 508* (last confirmed Mar.4)
4 - South Carolina: 301* and 311; 310, 318.
1 – Tennessee: DAR528*
0 - 4 – Indiana (Wintering)
209* and 416 (as of Mar.7), 420* (as of Mar.6), 313 wintered alone in Greene County
through January. A report of a Whooping crane in the area Feb. 20 may
have been 313*.)
31 – Florida: 101 and 202*, 105, 307, 309*, 401, 402, 403, 407,
408, 412, 415* has non-functional transmitter and was last reported
Feb.19, 501*, 502*, 503, 505, 506, 507*, 509, 510*, 511, 512, 514, 516,
519*, 520*, 523, 524 has non-functional transmitter and his status is
unknown. DAR523 DAR 626, DAR627, DAR628. 615 is still in Florida.
Spring Migration
- 102* and 216 began migration from Pasco County, FL on Mar.5 but no
subsequent reports have been received.
- 107* is believed to have migrated from her wintering area in Meigs and
Rhea Counties, TN. Her transmitter is nonfunctional, and she cannot be
tracked. No subsequent confirmed reports have been received.
- 201* and 306 began migration from Volusia County, FL Mar.7. No
subsequent reports have been received.
- 205 left his wintering area in Pasco County, FL approx. Feb.22 or 23
and was next reported Mar.2 in Jackson/Scott Counties, IN where he
remained at least through Mar.6.
- 211, 217* and W601*, the First Family, began migration from Hernando
County, FL Feb.23. No confirmed reports have subsequently been received.
- 303* and 317 and 312* and 316 began migration together from Marion
County, FL Mar.5. No subsequent reports have been received.
- DAR527* began migration from Meigs County, TN after Feb.12 and roosted
in Pike County, IN on Feb.21. No subsequent reports have been received.
- DAR533* began migration from Meigs County, TN on an unknown date and
arrived Jackson County, IN Mar.1.
OM has received numerous emails reporting sightings of Whooping cranes
on the move northward and has passed them all along to the Tracking
Team. These reports are both much appreciated and a great help. Please continue to report any sightings.
There were large migration movements of Sandhill cranes in Indiana,
Illinois, and Wisconsin at the end of last week, and some viewers
reported seeing a Whooping crane(s) in their midst. Without banding data
however, it is impossible to identify which bird was seen.
In his report, Richard Urbanek noted that the Tracking Team has also
received reports of Whooping crane sightings from Kentucky, Indiana,
Illinois, and Wisconsin. "Most sightings could not be verified," he
said, "so the identities of those birds believed to be Whooping cranes
could not be confirmed."
Thanks to Theresa Dailey, Gator Gates, and Bryan Woodward (FWS), Dean
Harrigal (South Carolina DNR), Wally Akins and Larry Armstrong
(Tennessee WRA), Randy Myers (Louisiana Dept. of Wildlife and
Fisheries), Marty Folk (Florida FWCC), Bryson McCord, and Dan Kaiser for
tracking or monitoring assistance.
Thanks also to Scott Terrell, Scott Tidmus, and Laurie Grady (Disney
Animal Programs), Jamie Miller (Univ. of Florida), and Paula Urbanek and
Brad Downen for capture assistance for transmitter replacements for 309
and 407. |
| Date: |
March 10, 2007
- Entry 1 |
Reporter: |
Liz Condie |
| Subject: |
3
Intern Positions Open |
Location: |
Main Office |
Operation Migration is looking for three interns for the approaching
season. Click the following link to view the job posting. |
| Date: |
March 8, 2007
- Entry 1 |
Reporter: |
Liz Condie |
| Subject: |
Northward bound |
Location: |
Main Office |
Tom Stehn, USF&WS Whooping Crane
Coordinator at Aransas National Wildlife Refuge emailed this morning to
let us know that the Wood Buffalo/Aransas population has started out on
spring migration – maybe.
"A family group of 3 Whooping cranes was seen this morning at 10 AM
climbing up to 1,000 feet and heading north," said Tom. "The sighting
was made a mile north of the refuge's northern boundary, so the cranes
had already left their normal winter range."
This is about 2 weeks early for Aransas Whooping cranes to be starting
their spring migration, but Tom said it was not unprecedented. "It is
also possible," he said, "that the three cranes were doing a 'test
flight' and that they may return to the refuge later today – but I'm
thinking they actually initiated migration."
Tom noted that, "Conditions at Aransas today are ideal for migration,
with mostly sunny skies, temperature in the 70's, and moderate southeast
winds."
Tom said he hopes someone will sight and report this family group as
they progress along the flyway. |
| Date: |
March 7, 2007
- Entry 2 |
Reporter: |
Liz Condie |
| Subject: |
Raise $$$ for OM without effort or cost |
Location: |
Main Office |
iGive.com, an online 'shopping mall' of more than 400 trusted retailers, offers
shoppers a new, no-cost way to support their favorite charity.
How does it work?
The retailers/stores on igive.com automatically donate a pre-determined percentage of each item's sale
price (some as high as 26%!) to the charitable organization of the
purchaser's choosing. (Which we hope will be Operation Migration of
course!)
So the next time you are making an online purchase from retailers such
as Barnes & Noble, Sears, Macy’s, or Kmart, why not use iGive.com? |
| Date: |
March 7, 2007
- Entry 1 |
Reporter: |
Liz Condie |
| Subject: |
Eastern
Migratory Population update to Mar. 3 |
Location: |
Main Office |
This update was compiled from
information provided by the Tracking and Monitoring Team consisting of
Tally Love, Stacy Kerley, Marianne Wellington (ICF), Bev Paulan (OM),
and Richard Urbanek (USF&WS).
Thanks to Susan Knowles, Theresa Dailey, Gator Gates, and Bryan Woodward
(FWS), Wally Akins (Tennessee WRA), Randy Myers (Louisiana Dept. of
Wildlife and Fisheries), and Marty Folk (Florida FWCC) for tracking
assistance.
* = Females; DAR = direct autumn release. The Eastern Migratory
Population (EMP) consists of 62 individuals, 36 males and 26 females.
Distribution at the end of the week was:
2 – Georgia: 212 and 419* (Last observed Feb.19)
4 - South Carolina: 301* and 311; 310, 318. (318 was last
observed Feb.26)
1 – Tennessee: DAR528*2
– Alabama: 213 and 218*
1 – Louisiana: 508*
2 – Indiana 420. 313 wintered alone in Greene County
through January. A report of a Whooping crane in the area Feb. 20 may
have been 313*.)
39/41 – Florida: 101 and 102*, 105, 201* and 306,
307, 309* and 407, 521, 519*, 401 and 520*, 402, 403, 412, 408, 501*, 514, 415*, 502*,
503, 507*, 505, 506, 509, 510* 511, 516, 523, DAR532, DAR626, DAR628,
DAR627. Unknown: A search flight on Mar. 1
confirmed the departure of the First Family (217*, 211, and W601*) from
west-central Florida. No subsequent reports have been received.
Locations of other potentially migrating birds are undetermined.
Spring
Migration
- 102* and 216 left Pasco
County on migration Mar. 5.
- 303* and 317 and 312* and 316 began migration together Mar. 5.
- 107* is believed to have migrated from her wintering area in TN. Her
transmitter is nonfunctional, however, an unconfirmed sighting on Mar. 2
in Fond du Lac County, WI may have been 107*.
- DAR533* began migration from Hiwassee, TN Mar.1 and roosted that night
in south east IN.
- 205 left Pasco County Feb. 22/23 and was reported in IN Mar. 3.
- 209* and 416 who wintered in Indiana were last found Feb. 11 and may
have begun migration.
- DAR527* began migration from Hiwassee, TN Feb.12 or after. She was
reported in Indiana Feb. 21 but no subsequent reports have been
received. |
| Date: |
March 6, 2007
- Entry 1 |
Reporter: |
Bev Paulan |
| Subject: |
615 is FREE! |
Location: |
Florida |
This past
Saturday Brooke and I drove out to Halpata for what we hoped was the
last time. The plan was to box 615, and drive him to a site to be chosen
by Richard Urbanek. We had attempted to release him two days prior by
letting him out of the pen, but he just ran off into the woods and
wouldn't fly. This was not acceptable due to the woods being the favored
habitat of bobcats. So back in the pen he went.
In his defense the woods do surround a nice pond, but unfortunately said
pond is dried up due to the drought conditions. Once 615 was boxed up,
we called Richard and he told us to meet him out in a coastal marsh for
the release. In fact, this marsh was where 615 had been seen flying when
we found him after the storm, so I figured it would be a good spot for
him. We drove to the site and even though it was raining, Richard and
Brooke walked the box to the edge of the marsh and released the bird.
According to Richard, who stayed to monitor the chick, he spent the
afternoon exploring his freedom, flew around, and seemed at home. It has
been a long, strange journey, but finally he is where he should be.
Free. Godspeed, little one, on the next step of your adventurous life.
Other news: This last month has sped by - luckily. I have ridden, as has
everyone, an emotional roller coaster that has gone from the lowest of
professional lows I have ever experienced, to the highest of highs when
we found 615 alive and well.
There have been a lot of trips back out to the pen site for clean up,
analysis, measurements and general pondering. It has been a difficult
time, but the support we all have received has helped us to get through
this.
Besides making daily trips out to Halpata to care for 615 and 105, we
are trying to get organized for the next stage. Prepping trikes,
organizing the away pen, and trying to recruit interns have managed to
fill the days.
While 105 was at Halpata, Richard Urbanek wanted to replace his damaged
transmitter prior to his release. Marianne, Brooke, and Richard all
pitched in to do the job, and I helped too. We took blood and fecal
samples to make sure he was in good health before the release.
Richard determined the spot for 105's release, and last Monday (the
26th), we captured and crated him. Marianne and Brooke drove the bird to
his new home, while I went to the Homossasa State Park just in case he
went back looking for his new love, Peepers. Luckily, he stayed put at
his new location and is still there today. Thus the days progress.
Some birds have already started their northward journey and we anxiously
await news of their travels. I, for one, will be breathing a lot easier
when our rebellious little 615 starts north and reaches Necedah safe and
sound.
View the photos here in the 2007 Spring photo journal. |
| Date: |
March 5, 2007
- Entry 2 |
Reporter: |
Liz Condie |
| Subject: |
Craniac Kid Gets Creative |
Location: |
Main Office |
Six year old Emily Black of Orillia,
Ontario designed a note card to help Operation Migration raise money in
memory of the Whooping Crane 'Class of 2006'. Emily's mom is Margaret
Black, one of the three original teachers in OM's Craniac Kids/Teacher
Network. Emily and Margaret have donated 200 finished cards complete
with envelopes to OM, and asked us to sell them at $2 each. You will
find Emily's note cards on our Merchandise page.
 |
Emily is also involved in
other wildlife conservation efforts including sponsoring animals
at the Muskoka Wildlife Centre. She also designed a note card to
help the Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre raise funds to care for '‘J.J.,
an injured Trumpeter swan.
In the spring, Emily will be illustrating the 2007 Gordon Black
Memorial Camp-Sponsorship Fund flyer. Over the past four
summers, this campaign, established in memory of Emily's late
dad, has provided 53 underprivileged children with an
opportunity to attend day camp.
We hope you will support Emily's efforts and add one (or more)
of her note cards to your merchandise orders. |
|
| Date: |
March 5, 2007
- Entry 1 |
Reporter: |
Liz Condie |
| Subject: |
Wood Buffalo/Aransas Population |
Location: |
Main Office |
Tom Stehn, USFWS
Whooping Crane Coordinator at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, sent
the results of his most recent (Feb. 27) aerial survey. Making this
possible was pilot Fred Roetker, of USFWS – Migratory Birds based in
Abbyville, LA.
As a sea fog rolling over the barrier islands cut the flight short after
3 ½ hours, Tom's census found only 180 Whooping cranes; 145 adults and
35 chicks. He estimates however that the total flock size remains at
237. The areas covered during his limited flight time were: the Aransas
refuge, Lamar, San Jose Island, and the southern third of Matagorda
Island.
"Census flights in 2007 have been limited to one a month due to the
increased cost of certified aircraft" said Tom. "My priority for this
flight was to look for any juvenile mortality as experience has shown
that juvenile mortality has a greater chance of occurring in adult pairs
with 2 chicks."
Tom said he located 5 of the 7 sets of 'twin' juveniles on his flight.
"One set was overlooked in spotty coverage of their territory due to
fog, and one twin family located on Welder Flats was not searched for at
all," Stehn said, "so it looks like all 7 twin families have so far
survived the winter."
The family group that it is believed to have gotten oiled plumage on
their fall migration was not located for the second consecutive flight.
"However," said Tom, "sea fog was rolling in and the search for this
family had to be ended. He said that finding this family will be made a
priority for his next flight scheduled for mid-March."
"Habitat conditions have been fairly good for the cranes this winter,"
said Tom. "In February, lots of cranes were observed in open bay
habitat, presumably feeding primarily on clams. On this flight, 8 of the
180 cranes were in open bay habitat. No cranes were located at sources
of freshwater, an indication that the bay salinities ranging between
16-20 ppt are just below the threshold when cranes are forced to seek
out freshwater to drink." |

| Date: |
February 28,
2007 - Entry 4 |
Reporter: |
Liz Condie |
| Subject: |
Florida
Non-migratory Flock |
Location: |
Main Office |
|
Florida Fish &
Conservation Commission's Marty Folk advises that marsh water levels
continue to be very low in central Florida.
"However, there is water in some marshes in Polk County," he said, "and
we've had a pair of Whooping cranes working on a nest platform there.
They could lay any day if they decide to."
Marty noted that in Osceola County another pair also has enough water
for nesting, whereas Lake County, where four chicks fledged last year,
is still very dry. "Any nesting there would necessitate the
pairs pioneering new marshes in new territories, and that’s not likely
to happen, Folk said."
Some Sandhills are nesting according to Marty who reports seeing one
successful hatch of 2 eggs. “It appears to be a slow year,” he said,
“even for Sandhills. |

| Date: |
February 28,
2007 - Entry 3 |
Reporter: |
Liz Condie |
| Subject: |
Update on 105 and 615 |
Location: |
Main Office |
Late Sunday,
Dr. Richard Urbanek (USF&W) and Sara Zimorski (ICF) co-chairs of the
Tracking & Monitoring Team, made the decision to release 105 from
the Halpata-Tastanaki Preserve. 105 was taken to the Paynes Praire
area for release. He has remained there since, 'hanging out' with
several other Whooping cranes currently stopping there.
Prior to 105's release the two captive birds at Homosassa State Park
were removed from open display just in case he decided to re-visit
that location in search of food or a lady friend.
With 105 removed from the equation, it is anticipated that 615, who
is being held in the other half of the Halpata pen, can be released.
Brooke, who has been monitoring 615 on a daily basis, advised us
this morning that according to the T/M Team, 615 could be let out as
soon as tomorrow. With spring migration time approaching 615 needs
both exercise and time to hone his survival skills in preparation
for his journal back north.
|

| Date: |
February 28,
2007 - Entry 2 |
Reporter: |
Liz Condie |
| Subject: |
Craniac a Winner |
Location: |
Main Office |
OM extends
its congratulations to Craniac Mark Chenoweth of Kissimmee,
FL. His breathtaking shot of a flight school training
session at the Necedah National Wildlife Refuge was selected as one
of the finalists for the Nature Conservancy's 2006 first ever
digital photography contest.
 |
When we spoke to Mark
he said, "They had thousands of entries from all over the
world, so being one of the 9 finalists in their Best Nature
Photo category is an honor.
Mark's photo is of Joe doing flight school training at the
Necedah National Wildlife Refuge.
"There is no monetary prize or anything material,"
said Mark, "but the photo appears on their website for
millions to see, and, I believe it will be in their 2008
calendar. "
"I hope the photo brings more attention for OM and their
great work. If it does, that is reward enough," he said. |
|

| Date: |
February 28,
2007 - Entry 1 |
Reporter: |
Liz Condie |
| Subject: |
Project Featured |
Location: |
Main Office |
The April
2007 issue of Birder’s World Magazine featuring Whooping cranes and
the efforts of the Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership, is available
in newsstands now. The article, written by associate editor Matt
Mendehall, covers behind the scenes activities at the refuge and
includes information on the First Family. To view Birder's World
recent online news coverage visit
www.birdersworld.com
|

| Date: |
February 27,
2007 - Entry 1 |
Reporter: |
Liz Condie |
| Subject: |
Eastern Migratory
Population update to Feb. 24 |
Location: |
Main Office |
This update was
compiled from information provided by the Tracking and Monitoring
Team consisting of Tally Love, Stacy Kerley, Marianne Wellington (ICF),
Bev Paulan (OM), and Richard Urbanek (USF&WS).
* = Females; DAR = direct autumn release. The Eastern Migratory
Population (EMP) consists of 62 individuals, 36 males and 26
females. Distribution at the end of the week was:
2 –Georgia
212 and 419*
4 - South Carolina
301* and 311; 310, 318
2/3 – Tennessee
DAR528*, DAR533* and a bird believed to be 107*. Sandhill
migration was underway during the week, and it is not known if 107
remained in the area as she has a non-functional transmitter.
2 – Alabama
213 and 218*
1 – Louisiana
508*
5/6 – Indiana
420*. PTT readings for DAR527* indicate that she has begun
migration and is in Indiana. A report of a Whooping crane in Greene
County, IN Feb. 20 may have been 313*. Numbers 209* and 416 were not
found during the week of Feb. 11 and they may have begun migration.
Reports of other Whooping cranes in Indiana during the week may have
been some of the cranes that had wintered in Indiana or Tennessee.
45 - Florida
Notes -
105 remains at the Halpata pensite where his transmitter was
replaced due to a broken antennae. Release is pending. 615
also remains at the Halpata pensite and will be released once the
situation with 105 has been resolved.
205 was not found
on his usual wintering grounds and may have begun migration.
211, 217* and
W601* (The First Family) left their location in Hernando County
after Feb. 22. A local resident stopped feeding them on that date.
Their current location has not yet been determined.
The Tracking Team thanks Susan Knowles, Theresa Dailey, Gator Gates,
and Bryan Woodward (FWS), Wally Akins (Tennessee WRA), Randy Myers
(Louisiana Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries), and Marty Folk (Florida
FWCC) for tracking assistance.
|

| Date: |
February 22,
2007 - Entry 1 |
Reporter: |
Liz Condie |
| Subject: |
Eastern Migratory
Population update to Feb. 17 |
Location: |
Port Aransas,
Tx |
Greetings from Port Aransas, Texas where Joe
and I are guests of the Port Aransas Chamber of Commerce to take
part in their 11th annual Celebration of Whooping Cranes & Other
Birds. The theme of this year's five day event is, Eyes to the Sky.
OM will be giving three presentations, and participating in the
'Bird's Nest Trade Show'. Our booth features a visual display of
OM's project work, and we will hand out educational materials as
well as offer visitors OM branded merchandise for purchase.
We hope people within driving distance will attend the event - and
look forward to meeting and greeting you at our booth.
The information compiled in this report was provided by the Tracking
and Monitoring Team consisting of Tally Love, Stacy Kerley, Marianne
Wellington (ICF), Bev Paulan (OM), and Richard Urbanek (USF&WS).
Mortality
The EMP has suffered another loss. The remains of 521* were
found in Citrus County, FL on Feb. 20. Telemetry data indicated that
her death occurred between 9 and 12 February. Remains were
distributed on animal trails through sawgrass and in dense
undergrowth in adjacent woodlands. Only feathers and bone fragments,
mostly minute, were found. Bobcat predation is suspected and the
remains have been forwarded for necropsy.
521* had been wintering in Citrus Colunty with 505 and 506 who
remain in the area, but not at the location of the mortality. This
is the third death of a released female in 2007.
* = Females; DAR = direct autumn release. The Eastern Migratory
Population (EMP) consists of 62 individuals, 36 males and 26
females. Distribution at the end of the week was:
45 - Florida
2 -Georgia: 212 and 419*
4 - South Carolina: 301* and 311; 310, 318
4 - Tennessee: DAR528*, DAR527*, DAR533* and a bird believed
to be 107* (non-functional transmitter)
2 - Alabama: 213 and 218*
1 - Louisiana: 508*
2 - Indiana: 209* and 416 were found approx. 10 miles from
their previous location. (They apparently did not leave the area in
response to a major cold front as the Tracking Team believed and
previously reported.)
2 – Unknown: 420*, 313* (A report of a Whooping crane in
Green County, IN on Feb. 20 may have been 313*)
The Tracking Team thanks Bryan Woodward (FWS), Wally Akins
(Tennessee WRA), Randy Myer (Louisiana Dept. of Wildlife and
Fisheries), and Marty Folk (Florida FWCC) for tracking assistance.
|

| Date: |
February 16,
2007 - Entry 1 |
Reporter: |
The OM Team |
| Subject: |
A Letter from the OM Team |
Location: |
Main Office |
Dear Friends
– old and new,
Your wonderful emails continue to come in; so many in fact that MS
Outlook occasionally gets overwhelmed and crashes our computers. We
continue to respond as quickly as we can - which, due to the volume,
is admittedly not all that fast. At the same time we are trying to
cope with our day to day responsibilities, so please bear with us.
Many of you are also writing looking for answers.
What was the cause of the 17 birds' deaths?
The catastrophic storm which caused the deaths of the birds, the
second worst of its type in Florida history, overwhelmed all
protocols and precautions that were in place. Until the complete
results of all the necropsies are in and the pensite is fully
examined, speculation remains that the deaths were as a result of
drowning or electrocution from a lightning strike.
What's happening?
WCEP is in the process of conducting a full review of the
mortalities with a goal of outlining possible actions, and, as may
be necessary, revise or develop new protocols that could minimize
the potential for a catastrophic loss of birds due to a storm.
Why doesn’t WCEP…..?
We can't speak for other WCEP partners, but here at OM we have
received a number of emails with suggestions for changes or
improvements. Some have merit, some are impractical, but all assume
drowning as the cause of death. Regardless, we are compiling them
into one document and will provide them for consideration as part of
the review process.
What's next?
What is next is year 7 of the project. While the loss of the
young birds was an enormous setback, we must continue to help ensure
this magnificent species is around for generations to come.
With your support, Operation Migration will be at USGS
Patuxent Wildlife Research Center in the spring to rear, imprint,
and do early training with the Class of 2007. Operation Migration
will be at the Necedah National Wildlife Refuge in the summer to
further the chicks' socialization skills, taxi-train them, and
conduct 'Flight School'. And in the fall, Operation Migration
will conduct an ultralight-led migration to teach a 7th
generation of young Whooping cranes a migration route south.
What won't be done?
We WILL NOT give up.
|

| Date: |
February 13,
2007 - Entry 1 |
Reporter: |
Liz Condie |
| Subject: |
Eastern
Migratory Population update to Feb. 10 |
Location: |
Main Office |
The information compiled in this
report was provided by the Tracking and Monitoring Team consisting
of Tally Love, Stacy Kerley, Marianne Wellington (ICF), Bev Paulan
(OM), and Richard Urbanek (USF&WS).
* = Females; DAR = direct autumn release. The Eastern
Migratory Population (EMP) consists of 63 individuals, 36 males and
27 females. Distribution at the end of the week was:
4 – South Carolina
301* and 311, 310, 318
4 – Tennessee
DAR527*, DAR528*,
DAR533*, and a bird believed to be 107* whose transmitted is non
functional.
2 – Alabama
213 and 218*
1 - Louisiana
508*
8 – Unknown
209* and 416, along
with 313* and 420* have not been detected since departing Indiana
early last week.
212 and 419* have not been detected since departing Wisconsin on
migration Nov. 30.
303* and 317 have not been detected since leaving the Chassahowitzka
pensite Jan. 28.
44 – Florida
The First Family: 211, 217* and Wild601*
Citrus County: 101 and 202*; 505; 506; 521*
Pasco County: 102* and 216; 205; 401 and 520* DAR626; DAR628
Volusia County: 201* and 306
Alachua County: 307; 512; 519; 309* and 407; 312* and 316; 510*; 511
Taylor County: 402; 403; 412
Hillsborough County: 408; 501*; 514
Levy County: 502*; 503; 507*; 523; 524
Lake County: 509
Marion County: 516, 105 and 615, (being temporarily held at Halpata
Tastanaki Preserve pen site – see note below)
Madison County: 415* (non-functional transmitter)
Lafayette County: DAR627
Highlands County: DAR532
Note re 615: He moved frequently early in the week but was
mainly stayed in Citrus County. Feb. 4 he roosted with small numbers
of Sandhills in Hernando County, was up north in Gilchrist County
Feb. 7, and was flying along the coast of Citrus County Feb. 8. He
returned to the Halpata Tastanaki pensite Feb. 9 and remained to
roost perhaps attracted by 105 who is being held at the pen site. He
remained there again on Feb. 10. As a precaution against nighttime
predation trackers retrieved and placed him in a sub-divided area of
the pen.
The Tracking Team thanks Windway Aviation, Wildlife Trust, pilot
Martin Sobel, Bryan Woodward (FWS), Wally Akins (Tennessee WRA),
Randy Myer (Louisiana Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries), and Marty
Folk (Florida FWCC) for tracking assistance.
|

| Date: |
February 11,
2007 - Entry 1 |
Reporter: |
Liz Condie |
| Subject: |
News
received today re 615 |
Location: |
Main Office |
Trackers
continued to monitor the whereabouts of 615 throughout the week. He
kept company with both Sandhills and Whoopers and was very active,
flying from county to county. He ranging as far north as Gilchrist
and stopping in on more than once occasion at the Halpata pensite.
In fact, he was found to have over-nighted there. He was roosting
outside the pen on dry land. As he appeared determined to keep
returning there, and because he was dry-roosting and high
susceptible to predation, trackers decided to capture him and move
him to safety.
105, the bird that was twice removed from Homosassa State Park, is
being held in the pen at Halpata, so the Tracking Team divided the
pen into two sections and moved 615 into the newly created half.
Both birds are supplied with food and fresh water and are being
checked daily.
The Project Direction Team has a conference call scheduled for
tomorrow, (Monday) at which time they will be discussing options
regarding 105. Once a determination re 105 is arrived at, they will
undoubtedly discuss what the alternatives are for 615.
View the photos here in the 2007 Winter photo journal.
|

| Date: |
February 9,
2007 - Entry 1 |
Reporter: |
The OM Team |
| Subject: |
The Week
Past |
Location: |
Main Office |
2007 started
off with a crash that resounded throughout the Whooping crane
community and around the world.
The news of the loss of 17 Whooping cranes in the recent storms that
ravaged central Florida reached the members of the Whooping Crane
Eastern Partnership, the Whooping Crane Recovery Team, and the
Whooping Crane Conservation Association at our annual meetings, held
this year in Louisiana.
Brooke Pennypacker broke the news via cell phone, and we had the
sorrowful task of making an announcement to each of the groups
convened in several meeting rooms. Shock and disbelief gave way to
emotion, and the hotel concourse quickly filled with tear-streaked
faces as individuals emerged seeking solace and offering
condolences.
The devastating news came on the heels of a very positive meeting.
OM reported that the migration, although long, was the most successful
yet. The survival rate from start to finish was 100%, and more birds
than ever before made the entire trip without being crated.
Geneticist Ken Jones reported that the pedigree of the class of 2006
had greatly improved the genetic diversity of the eastern flock and
increased the odds of proper breeding in the future.
Then elation turned to
desolation, and WCEP member partners had little more than minutes to
absorb the shock before gathering information, notifying their
teams, and start to make arrangements.
This disaster threw a
powerful spotlight on the Whooping crane reintroduction project; one
that far exceeded the attention garnered by the good news story of
the 'first hatch of a wild migratory chick in the U.S. in more than
a century'. The death of the 17 young birds resulted in hundreds of
media stories throughout North America, around the world, and news
coverage on virtually every major television network.
If there is anything that resembles a silver lining in this
black cloud, it is the heightened awareness for the plight of the
Whooping crane, as thousands of people previously unacquainted with
WCEP and Operation Migration were made aware of our efforts to
safeguard the species from extinction.
Special thanks to those who have donated to the 'Remembering the
Ultralight-led Class of 2006' fund, and for encouraging others to do
so. Your contributions will help us overcome this setback and carry
on in the coming year. We are immensely grateful. It is reassuring
to know we can count on you as we focus our dedication and
commitment on the soon to be hatched chicks for the Class of 2007.
Messages of sympathy and encouragement continue to come in. We lost
track of how many when the number passed the thousand mark. It may
take us some time, but we will individually acknowledge each and
every one.
While very small in number, we also acknowledge the critical and
angry emails we and other WCEP partners have received. We understand
this reaction. With few exceptions, the majority appear to be from
individuals not familiar with the project and its protocols. For
this reason we thought it appropriate to once more provide some
background information.
*************************************************************************************************
When the migration
is finished and the birds have been led to the Chassahowitzka
National Wildlife Refuge, the next step is what is called a 'gentle
release' into the wild. The juveniles are housed in a 4 acre pen
that is well out in the salt marsh in a closed area of the refuge to
keep them isolated from humans.
The enclosure has 8 foot high walls
and is protected from predators by an electric fence but it is not
top netted. The birds soon realize this and begin flying out during
the day, slowly learning to be wild birds in a natural environment.
In the evening they come back to the pen, attracted by the costume
handlers who check them twice a day and ensure they have a constant
supply of food and fresh water.
This is a measured way to slowly acclimate them to the wild; one
that has worked well for a number of years. But we now have 5
generations that have spent their first winter at the Chassahowitzka
pen, and for many, it is their first stop in Florida at the end of
their fall migration. If they arrive before the ultralight-led
migration is finished and the pen is devoid of activity, they move
on to their final winter territory. But if there are chicks in the
pen when they get there, they are often attracted by the free food
and they stay. This is why we began to short-stop the migration at
the Halpata site near Dunnellon. It allows the older birds more time
to disperse from the Chassahowitzka pen.
Whooping cranes are territorial, and the adults are often aggressive
to the inexperienced chicks. You may remember that in 2005 one of
our birds was killed during the migration as a result of a such a
confrontation, so the aggression can be serious. The adults will
also monopolize the feeding station and roosting areas, and
sometimes force the chicks out of the pen altogether. We have lost
yearling birds to bobcat predation because they were driven from the
pen at night by older birds.
In the mud and tall grass it is impossible to chase the older birds
off, and we can’t 'harass' them away, as everything we do to get
them to leave will affect the chicks as well. The only option left
is to move the chicks into a top-netted pen. This puts the food
source out of reach of the adults, and removes their access to the
targets of their aggression. They usually leave in a day or two and
the chicks can be released again. Normally, by the end of January,
the chicks are free to spend the winter in the release pen.
The top-netted pen is built outside the large 4 acre enclosure and
is situated on high ground that gets wet only at high tide. It is
built to be wind proof and secure from predators.
The flock was checked on Thursday, February 1st just before sunset.
The feeders were topped off and fresh water provided. The weather
was overcast with a light breeze and everything seemed normal. A
thunderstorm was forecast, but the birds had spent many stormy
nights in the pen and there was no reason to believe this would be
different. Even the airboat driver, a refuge employee with many
years experi | |