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Frequently Asked Questions

Are the cranes at your site wild?
No, the International Crane Foundation is home to a captive population of cranes that we care for year-round. Our birds do not migrate.

How long should we plan on staying?
Most visitors spend at least two hours on site. It is best to schedule two to four hours.

Do you have a gift shop?
Yes. The Gift Shop offers a wonderful array of items from around the world, as well as clothing, books, light snacks and drinks.

How hilly is your site?
The main exhibit area has paved ADA-accessible trails with gentle slopes. However, the unpaved nature trails do traverse several larger hills and some are uneven and steep.

Are there vending machines or food available?
Our gift shop sells beverages and a variety of healthy snacks. There are no concessions on our site.

When is the best time to see cranes dancing?
Cranes dance and call throughout the year. These behaviors tend to be more frequent during the breeding season in spring and early summer.

When is the best time of year to visit?
Each season offers something different. Spring flowers and dramatic threat displays from the cranes greet our early-season visitors. Summer treats visitors to an explosion of color in our exhibits and on our prairie. Autumn colors are spectacular on our site and all over south-central Wisconsin.

When is the best time of day to visit in order to avoid crowds?
We host approximately 8,000 school children each year. During the months of May and early June, please consider visiting us in the afternoon or on the weekends if you would prefer to avoid large school groups.

Do you have any wheelchairs available?
We have several wheelchairs and individual motorized scooters available on a first-come-first-serve basis.

Is there a storage area available?
There are no lockers or storage areas on the site.

Can I feed the cranes?
No, our cranes are given scientifically formulated diets. To ensure the health and well-being of our cranes, please do not feed them.

Do you have baby changing facilities on site?
Baby changing facilities are available in the George Archibald Welcome Center’s restrooms.

Can I pet the cranes?
No, for the safety of you and the cranes, please do not attempt to touch the birds.

If I visit in the fall, will your cranes already have migrated?
The cranes that live at the International Crane Foundation are captive birds and do not migrate.

Can I bring a camera and/or a video camera?
YES! We encourage you to take a lot of photos and videos! The International Crane Foundation is the only place in the world where visitors can see all 15 species of cranes.

Can I bring my pet?
We do not allow pets beyond the admissions area for the safety of our birds. We appreciate your cooperation.

If I find an injured crane, can I bring it to the International Crane Foundation?
We do not accept injured or orphaned animals. Please contact the National Wildlife Rehabilitator’s Association.

Do you still have questions? Please contact the Conservation Education Department at 608-356-9462 ext. 127.

You will fly to new places on the wings of cranes.

Are there hotels, restaurants or campgrounds nearby?
Our site is located a short distance from Baraboo and the Wisconsin Dells. For information on restaurants and lodging, please visit: