Whoop it up!

 

Every winter Whooping Cranes make the long journey from northwestern Canada and central Wisconsin to winter along the Gulf Coast of Texas and a few other southeastern parts of the United States. Standing five feet tall and boasting a wingspan of 7.5 feet, they are quite a majestic sight. Nearing extinction in 1942, there were less than 25 Whooping Cranes in the world. Named after their “whooping” sound, today over 800 of these beautiful birds are returning to their favorite warm vacation spot every winter. After an interesting courtship dance and a distinct duet, Whooping Cranes settle down with their partner and mate for life. Port Aransas is a winter spot for one family of Whoopers that can be seen in the marshlands of the Nature Preserve at Charlie’s Pasture or at the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center snatching up blue crabs or other crustaceans and small fish.

 

Here is the link for the bird tours:

https://www.whoopingcranefestival.org/2021-tours/

Saturday, Feb 27:  Mel Cooksey leads tour at Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center, 10 am – noon

Sunday, Feb 28:  Cindy Frank leads tour at Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center, 9 am – 11 am

BOTH ARE FULL

 

Download the Wings of Winter 2021 Guide here

Our Whoopers in the News

https://foxsanantonio.com/news/local/whooping-crane-festival-canceled-in-port-aransas-but-family-attractions-continue

https://texashighways.com/travel-news/no-whooping-crane-festival-this-year-no-big-whoop/

https://www.travelawaits.com/2561569/port-aransas-texas-whooping-cranes-viewing-february/

https://www.savingcranes.org/report-whooping-crane/