International Crane Foundation, Conservation center and zoo in Baraboo, Wisconsin, United States.
The International Crane Foundation is a conservation and breeding center in Baraboo, Wisconsin, dedicated to protecting all fifteen crane species found in the world. The grounds include open-air enclosures, nature trails, and exhibit areas where each species is kept in a setting that reflects its natural habitat.
The center was founded in 1973 by two Cornell University ornithology students who started their work on a Wisconsin horse farm before relocating to Baraboo. From the beginning, the focus was on coordinated international programs to study and protect crane populations around the world.
Among bird enthusiasts and wildlife lovers, this place has built a reputation as a destination worth crossing the country to visit. Watching the daily care routines up close gives visitors a sense of what hands-on conservation work actually looks like.
A visit works well at any time of year, though spring and summer tend to offer the most activity among the birds. The grounds are spread out, so comfortable footwear and enough time to walk at a relaxed pace make the most of the experience.
To help save the whooping crane from extinction, staff raised chicks while wearing full crane costumes so the birds would not imprint on humans. This method, known as costume rearing, is still used today and is one of the most labor-intensive techniques in wildlife conservation.
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