HUNTERS PUT ON WHOOPER ALERT
In light of the investigation into the recent shooting of two migrating whooping cranes in Kansas, the Southwest Region of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is asking the public in Oklahoma and Texas to be alert to the presence of the endangered birds as they continue their winter migration.
Service Special Agent Tom McKay recommends, hunters, know your targets. The Endangered Species Act protects such animals and any unlawful take can be costly with fines of up to $100,000 and/or up to 1 year in jail. Perpetrators are also subject to significant state and civil criminal penalties.
Their size, white plumage and red facial mask easily distinguish whooping cranes. Tom Stehn, National Whooping Crane Coordinator based at Arkansas National Wildlife Refuge said, approximately 210 whooping cranes are expected to winter at the refuge. They are a remarkable bird and the species has made an incredible comeback.
Author: FWS Date: Monday Nov 15 2004 13:08:01 pm
