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Big Boy and Big Bird

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During the recent week, many individuals have eagerly anticipated the chance to witness the "Big Boy 4014", the largest operational steam locomotive globally, as it travels on the Heartland of America Tour in the region. Similar to birdwatchers flocking to see a rare bird, train enthusiasts have traveled long distances and endured scorching temperatures to catch a glimpse and capture a photo of the "big boy".


Speaking of birds, do you know which species is considered the largest in Texas? If you guessed the Whooping Crane, you are correct. Just like the Big Boy locomotive, this bird is also rare. Every winter, birdwatchers travel great distances to catch a glimpse of this renowned feathered creature.


In 1941, during the construction of the Big Boy 4014, there were fewer than 20 Whooping Cranes remaining in the world. Due to habitat loss and excessive hunting, this majestic bird was on the brink of extinction.


After 80 years of conservation efforts, the species is slowly recovering. These impressive 5-foot-tall birds can be spotted in Texas between November and March, where they spend their winters along the Gulf Coast, feeding on blue crabs, shrimp, clams, small invertebrates, and plants. The young cranes are born in Canada's Wood Buffalo National Park and learn their migration route from their parents, covering a journey of about 2500 miles in length and only 300 miles wide.


Despite progress, these birds still encounter numerous challenges, such as a decline in blue crab populations on the Texas Gulf Coast due to drought and water diversions. This reduction in a vital food source is leading the cranes to venture further along the coast, exposing them to increased risks from power lines, predators, and illegal hunting. Make your plans now to visit the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge to view these magnificent birds and support their conservation.

My first opportunity to see the cranes was in March of 2013. I took this photo from a great distance away with a Nikon d100. The lighting was harsh but it was amazing to see them standing next to a Sandhill Crane. When I was living in Montana I had a Sandhill Crane as an education ambassador. Sandhills are about 3 1/2 ft tall so the Whooping Cranes towered above this individual.



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