Media contact: Kate Fitzwilliams, Marketing/PR Specialist, (608) 356-9462 ext. 147
- Find out what all of the noise is about during ICF’s 2012 Visitor Season (April 15 – October 31). From its beginning in the early 1970s, ICF has been involved in the conservation of the endangered Red-crowned Crane (above). An estimated 2,500 Red-crowned Cranes remain in the wild. Photo by Gopi Sundar/ICF
On Sunday, April 15th the International Crane Foundation (ICF) officially opens to visitors and our performers (the cranes) are dusting off their feathers, dancing and bugling to get ready. ICF’s world headquarters offers visitors a truly unique nature experience, as it is the only place in the world where all 15 species of cranes – the world’s tallest flying birds – are on display.
“Visitors are mesmerized by the grace, beauty and sheer size of these birds,” said Kate Fitzwilliams, ICF Marketing and PR Specialist. “Meeting the birds and learning what ICF is doing worldwide to save them and their rapidly disappearing wetland and grassland habitats is truly inspirational.”
ICF allows its visitors to relax, and just enjoy nature. Our trails, prairie flowers, and gift shop are all part of the experience. Bringing a picnic lunch is encouraged!
What’s New for 2012?
Chick Cam hatching in May! Tune in to our live web cam to view our Whooping Crane chicks as they are raised at ICF for reintroduction into the wild.
A Discover Wisconsin Choice Destination. ICF will be featured on Discover Wisconsin June 23rd as part of a birding episode. Ask for our birding checklist next time you visit ICF.
BLOOM! Enjoy spectacular photos of ICF’s prairie and prairie restoration work by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel photojournalist, Tom Lynn. Exhibit opens in the Donnelley Education Center June 23 – October 31.
ICF is open to the public every day between April 15 and October 31 from 9 am to 5 pm. From Memorial Day through Labor Day guided public tours are offered daily at 10:00 am, 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm, and on weekends ONLY in April, May, September and October. Public tours are free with general admission and there is no need to pre-register. You may also explore the site on your own. We suggest visitors plan to stay at least two hours.
Founded in 1973, ICF is a non-profit conservation organization committed to a future where all crane species are secured in the wild – a future where people cooperate to protect and restore wild populations and their ecosystems. The success of ICF is possible solely through the generous support of our members and donors. Visit www.savingcranes.org to plan your visit, see a list of upcoming events or become a member.