Heading North… ALREADY?

Last fall, two young (male) Parent-Reared Whooping Cranes were released in Marathon County, Wisconsin in the company of two (female) whoopers, numbers 28-05 and 2-15.

The youngsters, #19-17 and 25-17 were the first two Parent-Reared birds to be released last fall and they did indeed form a bond with the two older females and even followed them south, more than 800 miles to northeast Alabama.

The foursome remained in the area until late last week when the two older females apparently began heading north. They were spotted on Friday in Hardin County, Kentucky some 200 miles to the north. 

According to the remote tracking devices worn by each of the now almost-1-year-old males, indicate they both stayed behind in northeast Alabama. 

It will be interesting to see when they decide to head back to Wisconsin, whether they return to the area where they were released last fall, or like most of the young birds when they return, will they wander around.

Enjoy this photo captured by Georgia Roberts.

Whooping crane 28-05 on the left and 2-15 on the right. Photo: Georgia Roberts

If you’re fortunate to spot a Whooping crane please send us a report! 

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4 Comments

  1. Mindy February 15, 2018 2:49 pm

    Love seeing another two cranes! Especially one from the 2015 class, #2, who had kind of a rough start but later became a leader, albeit a headstrong one whom Joe had to work with….My sister and I nicknamed her Faith because we had faith that she would overcome her starting behavior ….Good to know she is well….

  2. Jennifer February 13, 2018 8:00 pm

    I love seeing these females and look forward to their return next year.
    Kentucky

  3. Elsie Sealander February 13, 2018 4:13 pm

    It’s great to hear news about 2-15 and that she is still around. I’m still voting for her.

  4. Grandma February 13, 2018 11:17 am

    The boys were smart to stay behind for a while, too cold up here in the North Country! Thank you for the daily reports and thanks to all at OM!