October 1, 2003 Things
Take Time
The 2003 whoopers are ahead of last year's flock by a good two weeks, and the migration will likely take almost two months to complete. So why don't they just leave right now? The main reason is that each team members needs one more visit back home with family before the long migration begins. They've already spent all summer in Wisconsin, away from their loved ones. Now, when they are not working with the birds, they are trying to prepare for all the things that could happen on the migration. When all of the equipment and people are back in place, it will be time to leave. As pilot Joe Duff remind us, "If luck and the weather are on our side, that will be October 8." With its unpredictable storms and early morning fogs and frosts, autumn often brings poor flying weather. The birds and ultralights have already been grounded for many recent days due to winds and/ or rain, so the advantage of their early readiness might be wearing away. Once migration begins, any weather delays will add pressure to the already overworked team, not to mention eating up the funds. So keep your fingers crossed for good weather!
Migration Math: Work
It!
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