HISTORY OF DECLINE OF  WHOOPING CRANES POPULATIONS 1800s (late) - 1500+ 1942 ---------     16

REASONS FOR DECLINE
1.  Human Impact
     a.  1870 - 1920
         1.   shot for food, feathers, and sport

2.  Migration
     a.  obstructions
          1.  power lines - the number one cause
          2.  barbed wire fences
     b.  human encroachment and developments of rest areas
     c.  length of migration (4000 km or 2500 miles)

3.  Wintering/Nesting Grounds
     a.  wetland habitats drained
     b.  human encroachment and developments
     c.  shipping barges carrying chemicals and oils
     d.  commercial fishing activities with nets
     e.  severe weather such as hurricanes and violent storms

 4.  Biological Factors
     a.  do not reach sexual maturity until 4 or 5 years old
     b.  usually lay just 2 eggs, but only one chick is fledged
     c.  breed only every 2 or 3 years

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