50th Down Day (+0 Miles) December 11, 2006: Migration Day 68 The team put a pilot and ultralight up and discovered it was still too windy aloft to fly the birds out of Terrell County, GA. Dec. 13 is the next most likely fly day, as the forecast has winds at 15 out of the NNW. The team hopes to advance Dec. 13 and 14 before a predicted low pressure system moves in and brings rain. But. . . NEWS FLASH! The First Family with chick arrived Dec. 9 at 4:08 pm at the Florida pen site at Chass!!!! More... Crane #619 hugs the leading edge of the wing on Dec. 9, 2006. Photo Chris Gullikson, Operation Migration. In the meantime, craniacs everywhere are on the edge of their seats, waiting to celebrate the crane-kids arrival. We think you'll be as excited as we are about the preparations in Mrs. Black's class. See their "Press Release!" Of course, we'll have photos when the Big Day comes. In the Classroom How does the ultralight HELP birds in flight? Photo Chris Gullikson, Operation Migration Today's Journal Question: On the Dec. 9 flight, pilot Chris said "612 entertained me for awhile as he flew the lead position and tugged on one of the wing's batten strings. I was challenged for the lead on several occasions, and once found myself with all the birds out in front of me flying in a V formation." See the photos on this page. Next, listen to this audio clip: • How does the trike help the cranes in flight? Now you'll be able to answer: (a) What human activity is similar to the flight of birds with an ultralight? (b-for-Bonus) Why do the cranes like to be close to the wing? Migration History: Last year on this date, how many birds had to be boxed because they refused to fly? Where were they? Migration Math: If day 68 is the 50th down day, on how many days have they flown? Help the Cranes and Planes Reach Florida! Map Daily News The Chicks The Team Journey North is pleased to feature this educational adventure presented in cooperation with the Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership (WCEP). Copyright 2006 Journey North. All Rights Reserved. Please send all questions, comments, and suggestions to our feedback form.