Brought to you by WBIW News and Network Indiana
Last updated on Tuesday, February 14, 2012
(GOOSE POND FWA) - More than a 1,000 bird-watchers flocked to Goose Pond, near Linton, this weekend to catch a glimpse of the rare Asian Hooded Crane first spotted Thursday.
People traveled from all over the country to see the bird, known for its musical sounds and unique behavior. Experts say the species is rarely found and normally nests in Russia and China and winters in Japan.
According to Goose Pond Property Manager Brad Fester birdwatchers from Minnesota, Michigan, Illinois, Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, Oklahoma, Nebraska, Florida and Missouri were at the property to watch the crane.
The breakdown of visitors:
Thursday - 85
Friday - 75
Saturday - 300
Sunday - 600
The rare bird has spent most of its time in the Beehunter Unit 5 area just east of County Road 1050 east and north of County Road 100 South. That area is a roosting place for Sandhill Cranes and feed in the area.
The bird was still in the area on Monday.
Feaster says the rare bird arrived in the area with the Sandhill cranes. Currently there are about 15,000 Sandhill Cranes at Goose Pond.
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