I've received some emails requesting a bit more follow up re: whooping cranes
viewing.
The Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership has provided additional guidance in the
past which I'll share:
The WCEP asks anyone who encounters a whooping crane in the wild to please give
them the respect and distance they need in order to survive and thrive. More
specifically, please--
- Do not approach birds on foot within 200 yards;
-Try to remain in your vehicle
-Use of binoculars or spotting scopes is recommended for viewing
-Do not approach in a vehicle within 100 yards.
-Remain concealed and do not speak loudly enough that the birds can hear
you.
-Do trespass on private property in an attempt to view whooping cranes."
Researchers have learned that cranes that become overly tolerant of human
presence are at greater risk to numerous hazards that could endanger their
well-being. The WCEP recognizes that some birders may share the specific
locations of whooping cranes on local "rare bird alerts" or the media, but
believes that most people are glad to protect these extremely endangered birds
by maintaining their distance and allowing these birds to establish a healthy,
wild nature.
Hope this is helpful
Lisa Gelvin-Innvaer
Reg. Nongame Wildlife Specialist, CWB (r)
MN DNR Southern Region
Div. of Ecological & Water Resources
261 Hwy 15 South
New Ulm, MN 56073
phone: (507) 359-6033
fax: (507) 359-6018
e-mail: [email protected]
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