Ultra-light led whooping crane historic migration flight delayed due to weather

October 15, 2001

Contact:

Jennifer Rabuck, USFWS, 608-565-4412

Bob Manwell, Wisconsin DNR, 608-264-9248

Joan Guilfoyle, USFWS, 612-713-5311 (cell 612-810-6797)

Necedah, Wis. -- The planned departure of a small flock of whooping cranes from Necedah National Wildlife Refuge was postponed for at least 24 hours this morning when winds in the refuge area proved too strong for safe departure.

"The migration team awoke to clear bright skies but the winds were judged too strong for flying according to the pilots and crane handlers" said Bob Manwell Department of Natural Resources spokesperson. "Winds make it difficult for the cranes to find the 'sweet spot' in the airplane's wake requiring much more effort to keep up."

If winds subside the migration will depart Tuesday morning, October 16.

Media should plan on arriving at the refuge headquarters by 6:30 a.m. to cover the event. A press conference with pilots and crane handlers will be held at noon, at the refuge office, following the first day's flight.

Updated project information is available bycalling 612-713-5311.

The final flight decision is made each morning based on local weather

conditions.

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