Note: These Challenge Questions coincide with the Spring 2006 Reports Whooper Challenge Question #3 From: by way of Journey North <dfirmani@earthlink.net> Date: Fri Mar 24 2006 - 16:39:42 EST Dear Journey North, The best time for Whoopers to migrate is determined by experience, and then, natural selection helps ensure that the birds who made the best choices survive. The birds leave partly in response to degraded habitat conditions in their wintering grounds, such as diminishing food supplies. They also watch for weather that seems favorable for starting their journey. The weather during migration and upon arrival at their destination can affect them either positively or negatively. Bad weather during migration can slow or stop their progress. If they arrive too early, and the weather is still severe, this can lead to death. If they arrive too late, there may not be any good nesting spots for them, and even if they do nest, there may not be enough food for their young. All these variables make it difficult for Whoopers to accomplish their journey. Marcus F. (Sixth Grade) Received on Fri Mar 24 16:39:48 2006 Copyright 2006 Journey North. All Rights Reserved. Please send all questions, comments, and suggestions to jn-help@learner.org