July 1, 2013
The chicks are still at Patuxent Wildlife Research Center in Maryland. This is where they have "Ground School." They get used to being by the tiny yellow aircraft that will lead them on migration. The long-necked crane puppet drops treats. This encourages the chicks to walk alongside the plane. The pilot or another costumed handler works the puppet. The chicks look cooperative and curious! They still have that "baby" look.

Image: Operation Migration