We're doing a happy dance – the first Whooping Cranes have arrived at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge in coastal Texas! An early report was conveyed by Capt. Tommy Moore late last week. Our Texas staff located the pair this week and observed them exploring several areas of coastal marsh within the Refuge. With these cold fronts crossing the North American continent we should expect more cranes to arrive on their wintering grounds every week! | International Crane Foundation

10K views · 496 reactions | Whooping cranes are graceful, expressive and curious creatures. With the help of conservation science, these endangered treasures of North America are flying back from the brink of extinction. Get acquainted with these big, beautiful birds in this Q+A with Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute keeper Chris Crowe. STORY: https://s.si.edu/3uSRjda. | Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute | Facebook