Rained Out (+0 Miles)
December 7, 2007: Migration Day 56

Image: Nasa World Wind

After arriving in Tennessee yesterday, the birds and team are stuck on the Cumberland Plateau. Today's rain means they're unable to fly over the ridge to Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge. Yesterday's Journal Question asked you to review to see why the next flight is such a challenge. Today the map gives you another look at the obstacles ahead. You can see why they need perfect flying conditions to attempt the crossing. You can understand why Brooke once quoted an old saying among pilots: "It is far better to be on the ground wishing you were in the air, than in the air wishing you were on the ground."

 

(Map|Data)

In the Classroom

  • Explore the Map: Notice how clearly you can see Cumberland Ridge on the satellite image above. Take a close look at the challenge the cranes face by zooming in on Googel Maps. Begin at Hinch Mountain, the highest point, and travel down Cumberland Ridge.
  • Today's Journal Question: (a) How many miles has the migration traveled so far? How many of the 1,250 miles remain?
    (b-for-bonus)
    This is the first year that the DAR, or Direct Autumn Release) chicks released to follow other cranes have not "followed the plan." On Day 51 you learned that DAR 46-07 got some human help in reaching Tennessee. The six other Direct Autum Release (DAR) chicks that left Wisconsin without a leader are on the move again too—still with no leader. Read details and see the map for DAR 39-07, 40-07, 42-07, 43-07 and 44-07. What needs to happen for these birds to sucessfully migrate and reach a suitable winter habitat? As you think about your answer, see the range maps where Whooping Cranes existed long, long ago.( Look at the gray areas that show "former breeding & wintering areas.")

 

 


Journey North is pleased to feature this educational adventure presented in cooperation with the Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership (WCEP).