Join Fred Leef, Environmental Educator with the National Audubon Society, for a captivating presentation on the ecology and conservation of North America’s only two native crane species: the Whooping Crane and the Sandhill Crane.
Out of 15 crane species worldwide, only these two call North America home. While Sandhill Cranes are among the most abundant cranes globally, Whooping Cranes are the rarest. In 1941, their population had plummeted to just 15 individuals. Thanks to decades of dedicated conservation work, their numbers have now rebounded to over 500 in the wild, with additional individuals in managed populations bringing the total to more than 800.
Come learn how science, collaboration, and perseverance have helped bring these iconic birds back from the brink—and what challenges and opportunities lie ahead for their continued survival.
Meet at the Visitor Center for this free program at 1 p.m.