The International Crane Foundation is proud to announce the 50th anniversary of its annual Midwest Crane Count, a landmark milestone for one of the longest-running community science wildlife surveys in North America.

With support of the Mumford and Keller grant award, the International Crane Foundation distributed 18 “Birding Backpacks” throughout western and central Indiana to libraries, fish and wildlife areas, and nature centers. These backpacks are now available for local youth and families to check out at no cost.

I encountered my first Sandhill Crane in the spring of 1973. As a first-year graduate student and an ornithology teaching assistant, I was weak at the knees with my inexperience, yet loving every minute. Drs. George Archibald and Ron Sauey, recently of Cornell University, were just establishing the International Crane Foundation on the northern outskirts of Baraboo, Wis.

Hosted by the International Crane Foundation, Uganda’s crane festival brought together Uganda government officials, conservation scientists, traditional clan leaders, and local communities to highlight the role of science, culture, and accountability in conserving wetlands.

New Visitor Center in Okhotsk Perevoz, Yakutia, established for migratory bird research and education activities.

A local grassroots celebration of cranes has now grown into a national platform for education, cultural exchange, and conservation action.

How do you secure a floodplain of international significance for wildlife and people, reverse ecological degradation, and promote sustainable development and livelihoods for one million Zambians?

In the vast sky, the Siberian Crane, with its graceful figure and tenacious migratory journey, has become a legend of nature. Among these migratory birds, there is a female Siberian Crane whose life has written a touching story. She is S25, a name remembered by countless people, a symbol of courage, resilience, and hope. 

The International Crane Foundation is a leader in the conservation of cranes. We don’t work alone, however, and we owe much of our success to the wonderful volunteers who help us accomplish our mission.