Give a Whoop!
The Whooping Crane is one of North America’s most iconic birds. Standing nearly five feet tall, with snow-white feathers, black wing tips, and a bright red crown, it is the continent’s tallest bird. Their name comes from their unmistakable call: a loud, echoing “whoop” that can be heard from miles away, a sound that was once common across wetlands throughout North America and is slowly returning today.
From Indiana’s Wetlands to the Brink of Extinction
Whooping Cranes were once common across the Midwest, including Indiana. The state’s wetlands provided food and water, and a place to stop during migration. However, by the late 1800s and early 1900s, widespread wetland drainage, unregulated hunting, and egg collecting resulted in Whooping Cranes disappearing from most of its former range, including Indiana. By the 1940s, the total population of Whooping Cranes had dropped from around 10,000 birds to only 21 birds left in the wild. At that point, extinction was on the horizon. Fortunately, thanks to decades of federal protection for birds and their habitats, and coordinated conservation efforts between non-profit organizations, scientists, government agencies, zoos, and private landowners, Whooping Cranes have a chance at recovery today.
The Eastern Migratory Population: A New Chapter
Today, the historic population remains smaller than it was, with about 550 individuals. These cranes breed in Canada and migrate south each winter to the Texas Gulf Coast. A second migratory population, known as the Eastern Migratory Population (EMP), was established through an ex-situ breeding and release program led by several conservation organizations. Young Whooping Cranes were raised in human care and taught their migration routes through an innovative program that used ultralight aircraft to lead the way. Now, enough adult cranes know the route to lead young birds, but breeding, release, and ongoing monitoring and management efforts continue to support the population’s growth.
Today, the EMP has about 70 Whooping Cranes that breed in Wisconsin and migrate to spend the winter between Indiana and northern Alabama. Goose Pond and Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Areas are great places to look for Whooping Cranes in Indiana between November and March.
Why Indiana Matters
Indiana plays a vital role in Whooping Crane recovery. The state’s wetlands and wildlife areas provide essential migration stopovers and wintering habitat for the Eastern Migratory Population. When these wetlands are healthy, cranes can safely rest and feed during migration. At the same time, these habitats support countless other wildlife species, improve water quality, and help reduce flooding. This makes wetland and Whooping Crane conservation a win for both wildlife and people!
How You Can “Give a Whoop”
Despite progress, Whooping Cranes still face challenges today. Habitat loss continues to threaten the wetlands they rely on for feeding, resting, and nesting. Cranes are also at risk of collisions with power lines, which can be fatal. Because today’s population descends from very few birds, low genetic diversity is another challenge to the species’ recovery. Disease, including HPAI (avian flu), is an emerging concern. In 2025, the first confirmed death of a Whooping Crane from HPAI was recorded.
Here’s how you can play a role in supporting Whooping Crane conservation:
Report sightings: If you see a Whooping Crane, report it at bandedcranes.org. Sightings help biologists track movements and protect important habitats.
Advocate for cranes and wetlands: Advocate to protect local wetlands and uplands. Talk to your friends and legislators about cranes and wetlands in your state.
Get involved: Head to the International Crane Foundation’s website and support the organization’s work through volunteering, donations, or membership.