September 17, 2002 Back to Speed Photo J.Duff for WCEP OM project leader Joe Duff reports the birds have recovered from their sore muscles. By now, they are used to their new leg bands. They have begun to trust the trainers and pilots again. What a relief! It took a lot of coaxing, but they are back in the air. The oldest group is flying the 10-15 minute flights they had achieved before banding. In the group of ten, six birds fly well and four are less committed. The birds and pilots are building up their time in the air. Autumn is around the corner. The wetlands of Necedah National Wildlife Refuge are beginning to fill with migrants: ducks, herons, geese and more. They probably wonder at the strangest migrants of all: the young cranes that fly with the big yellow bird--the ultralight. Try This! Journaling Question What do you think are some signs that four of the young cranes are less committed to flying with the ultralight? If you were pilots Richard, Brooke, or Joe, how might you try to improve the situation? Journey North is pleased to feature this educational adventure made possible by the Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership (WCEP). Copyright 2002 Journey North. All Rights Reserved. Please send all questions, comments, and suggestions to our feedback form