Whooping Crane Whooping Crane

September 30, 2002
New Target Date

Seventeen!
Photo OM and WCEP

Circle this date on your calendar: October 10. OM Administrative Director Heather Ray sent news that the migration target date is now delayed until October 10. (The target date is when the crew is ready. After that, the weather is in charge.)

The 17 birds are getting more even in their flying ability. It's harder to tell the younger birds from the older birds now because their feathers and coloration also look more the same. Click on the photo to enlarge it and count 17 flying birds. In very calm air, the lead bird is only 6 to 8 inches from the wing tip of the ultralight. Notice how white the birds are now, with black wing tips.

We asked you earlier to journal about why a bird closer to the trike's wing has an easier flight. Hear what 2001 OM pilot Deke Clark explains about this. Listen for and add any new information to what you already wrote in your journal.


Try This! Journaling Question
  • What might be some reasons for postponing the departure date again? (What would weather in the past two weeks have to do with it? What new problems might be encountered because of departing later?)


Journey North is pleased to feature this educational adventure made possible by the
Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership (WCEP).

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