Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Field Trip to Baraboo

Why would anyone visit Baraboo, Wisconsin? (The place that actually sounds like it is in the middle of nowhere—which is accurate). To see all fifteen species of cranes in the entire world, of course!

(Addendum from Abi: The Circus World Museum is also in Baraboo).

A couple weekends ago, my Ornithology class piled into a van at 7 a.m. on a Saturday and trekked up to Baraboo to the International Crane Foundation. This organization is dedicated to reviving crane populations around the world and preserving their habitat. I was skeptical about having the majority of my Saturday taken away (at a crucial time in the semester where I need every minute) but it was definitely worth it.

All fifteen species of cranes live at the headquarters in Baraboo (I really just enjoy saying this. It sounds like Yogi Bear named it). It was a sunny, slightly chilly day, but we toured around and learned a lot about the different species as well as what the International Crane Foundation is doing to revive their populations, reintroduce them into the wild as well as educate the public.

So, if you ever happen to be in Baraboo, Wisconsin, you should check this place out.

Whooping Crane

Bloodroot (I think)

I love the bright yellow-green of spring

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