International Crane Foundation (ICF)

On my way from Minnesota to my sister’s house in Illinois on Thursday, I also decided to take a break about half way along the trip and stop at the International Crane Foundation’s headquarters in Baraboo, WI.  “The ICF is a non-profit conservation organization that works worldwide to conserve cranes and the wetland and grassland ecosystems on which they depend… Our world headquarters is a center for research, education, ecosystem restoration and captive breeding.”

Since I have taken the guided tour in the past, I opted to do the self-guided tour this time so I could concentrate on photography.  I also had a limited amount of time since I still had almost 200 miles to go for the day.    The paths for viewing the cranes are all paved and handicapped accessible.  There are even several mobility scooters available for visitor’s use.  Interestingly, the paths are paved with recycled crushed glass bottles.  I haven’t been anywhere else that uses this resource.

There are 15 species of cranes in the entire world, and this is the only facility that has birds of all of these species.  Because I took so many pictures, I’m using a series of collages to present what I saw.  (you can click to enlarge if you like)

There is a marvelous mural on the wall of one of the buildings in the Spirit of Africa exhibit.  There are plenty of benches and shaded observation areas along the way with water dispensers for visitors.  That water was much appreciated during my walk around the paths.

In the center is the Johnson Exhibit Pod where many species outside of Africa are found.  The enclosures are large, and it was interesting to watch the birds finding all sorts of bugs and things to eat.  I’m not sure that fellow on the left appreciated having his picture taken.  Looks like he’s giving me the evil eye!

There is a separate, beautiful exhibit of our North American endangered Whooping Crane.  It’s one of the few places where you can get a picture without the chain fence in the way.

The paths throughout the compound are lined with many varieties of native wildflowers.

I’d say that July is a great time for a visit here to enjoy the added beauty.  There are also several unpaved hiking trails, a family education center, and a picnic area on the property that I didn’t have time to take advantage of on this visit.  The visitor’s center also has a nature store that I’ll talk about more in a later post.  The cost for seniors is $8, which includes the guided tour of the facilities.  I found that price reasonable for what you are able to see and do, and it helps support this non-profit agency.  So, if you’re in the Wisconsin Dells area anytime, I’d suggest a visit to the International Crane Foundation on US 12.

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Thanks for stopping by… talk to you later,  Judy