Hello, ILLINOIS! (+35 Miles)
October 29, 2011: Migration Day 21

Young whooping cranes takeoff with ultralight airplane leading the way.

Image: Tom Schultz

This is a day for TERRIFIC NEWS: They crossed into Illinois, and for the first time the entire group flew the whole distance! Shortly after takeoff the group split. Pilot Joe kept six, while Brooke flew with two and Richard with one. The birds flew like champions. They are catching on! They are now 120 miles into the journey south. Today's flight took off at 8:20 and landed about 9:10. If crane speed is 38 mph and they flew 35 miles in under an hour, did they have a headwind —or tailwind?

There's still other thrilling news! This photo holds the clue, and you can click on the photo to learn more:

Missing crane #2=11 is found among a large flock of sandhills!

In the Classroom: Journal or Discussion

Today is Saturday: No school, no questions!

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