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| Adults 211, 212 & 217 arrived at the Chass pen site during the
week of January 16 - 22nd. |
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| When the older and more aggressive white birds are present, the
handlers will take time to release the juvenile cranes from the new
top-netted section of the pen, while staying nearby to allow them to spend time in the
open topped section. With the handlers present they are able to help
the juveniles defend themselves against the older "white
birds." |
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| Note the juveniles with their still tawny feathers inside the
top-netted section and enjoying their feed, while in the background
the three adults pace on the outside of the enclosure. |
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| The three adults attempt to exert their authority in the presence
of the costumed handler. |
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| Whenever possible the juveniles are allowed into the open-topped
section of the large enclosure. Here they forage on the man-made
oyster bar with the handler nearby. |
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The tidal levels fluctuate so much that the graduated oyster bar
allows them to roost in water no matter what the water depth is.
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Cranes #211 & 212 in the distance to the west of the enclosure.
Here you can see the top strand of electric fencer, which prevents any
potential predators from climbing over and into the crane pen.
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The handler coerces the young cranes into returning inside their
top-netted section after spending some time outside.
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Two handlers proceed from the observation blind, along the boardwalk
and out to the pen to replenish feeders.
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