Well, this facility seems to have seen a little boost in attention lately. So, why not throw my thoughts into the mix? 
Review of the International Crane Foundation
International Crane Foundation - International Crane Foundation
The International Crane Foundation can be found in Baraboo, Wisconsin. Two ornithology students, who wished to help conserve the world’s crane species, founded it in 1973. Since that time, the establishment has blossomed into the premiere resource in preserving this group of birds, creating a number of programs across the globe through in-situ conservation, reintroduction programs, and environmental research. Situated on nearly 300 acres, it is most well-known as the only institution on the planet with all 15 crane species – of which around 100 specimens reside at the park.
It was a real treat to see this facility, especially as it just reopened earlier this year after an excessive overhaul, having been closed since late 2018. Having seen this famous park myself, I can easily say that the renovation job really paid off. Not only does it give off a professional, new, and crisp appearance, but it goes above and beyond in the presentation and conservation of its species. Never have I seen a specific group of animals get this much focus and attention – the effort to help bring a new sense of appreciation and respect is admirable, especially for an animal that one may not think much of at first.
Johnson Exhibit Pod – Based on photos and what I’ve read in the past, this group of exhibits was originally how most of the establishment was set up, with a circle of enclosures surrounding a holding building in the center. At first glance, the exhibits seem a bit basic in presentation, but upon closer inspection, they work quite well for the elegant birds. The enclosures all range from average to good in terms of size, feature nice and scenic ponds, and clumps of tall grass and other foliage complement the shorter grass to help give a more natural appearance. The viewing is primarily through mesh, but there are a couple species where viewing is from an open-air hut – specifically for blue and red-crowned cranes. If I did have to pick one element that is not as successful, it would be that some of the exhibits’ mesh ceilings are fairly low, making these look a little small if the birds wish to hop or dance. Other than that, it’s a set of bird habitats that look simple, but offer a lot at the same time. The crane species here include: sarus, blue, Eurasian (didn’t see), white-naped, hooded (didn’t see), and red-crowned.
Spirit of Africa – As the name of the complex (which opened in 2009) implies, birds from the Dark Continent are the denizens here. It begins with a black-crowned crane habitat that is similar in design to those in the Johnson Exhibit Pod, followed by a neat education area. It’s an African river display with a wetland mural, a tribal canoe, and a sculpture of a Nile hippo – a nice area for photos! Nearby are two more crane exhibits, for the demoiselle and grey crowned species, that are similar in appearance; each offer a good amount of space, lush greenery with a pond, and up-close viewing through mesh. The biggest area here is home to a pair of wattled cranes; this is the third largest crane habitat at the facility, and possibly this complex’s highlight. The green hills all lead down to a large marsh that looks beautiful and can also be seen via covered overlook, along with the main path that bends around one side of the enclosure. Only briefly did one of the birds stroll down to the pond, but I imagine it is quite a sight to see them lingering or wading through the water.
Whooping Crane Alcove & Wetlands Experience – This in my opinion is the crown jewel, and a great finale to the facility. Just after the Johnson complex, a minor incline takes one to a slightly open and grassy area. The build-up towards the pavilion is well-done with some interactive elements and other surrounding details. Some of these include finding animal statues that represent a crane’s natural diet, and crane prints in the trail. The covered pavilion beckons, but not before crossing a little bridge over a small marsh, which almost looks like it isolates the visitor area on an island – a nice touch. Tons of interpretive signage and information are the welcome wagon, highlighting how both whooping and Siberian cranes were on the brink of extinction, before intense efforts were put in to conserve them. It’s one of the pinnacles of this facility’s excellent educational displays, especially for one of its most well-known species. Speaking of which, the whooping crane habitat itself is phenomenal, one of the all-time greatest bird enclosures I’ve ever seen. A large amphitheater offers fantastic views over a big marsh by a hillside. One crane remained at the peak of the hill on the far side with only its head shown, while its mate came down to wade along the shore for a while, sometimes investigating the water with its beak. The best component here is how the hill looks like it blends into the forest seemingly just behind it – what a magnificent sight and design! Next door, the Siberian crane habitat (a first for me), while not as strong as their North American relatives, is also a great bird oasis, offering a hilly and grassy landscape fronted by a large pond. Unfortunately, I couldn’t get a great view of the species, as the one bird I saw was in a corner near its holding area, but I was thrilled to see this highly rare animal. Off-topic, but where else are Siberians held, as ICF is the only one I know of? On the whole, with its magnificent attention to detail in exhibitry and education, along with displaying two highly endangered species, it is easy to see how this is ICF at its strongest.
Other Exhibits – The very first exhibit can be seen right after paying admission. In the “Welcome Center,” large windows look into a lush, roomy habitat for sandhill cranes, along with outdoor viewing through mesh. Also, across from the Johnson Exhibit Pod, there are two more crane habitats that are not part of any specific area. These are mainly viewable via covered overlook, are a decent size and quality, and are the homes of black-necked crane (another first) and brolga (didn’t see).
The Crane Foundation sits on a very large site – almost 300 acres; however, the primary grounds where visitors walk are surprisingly small. It’s easy to not only see the majority of the main site from the entrance path, but also spend about 1.5 hours at this facility at the most. Having said that, the grounds take advantage of the surrounding natural environment very well. There is a multitude of foliage along the main trail, rocks and boulders of varying sizes, the stream near the whooping and Siberian crane exhibits, and a magnificent view of the nature preserves one may hike through if they wish. Furthermore, the shiny new entrance complex looks like it fits into the scenery beautifully. The building design with its traditional-looking bricks and wood looks very pretty; the gathering area before entering is spacious; there are sculptures that look nice and don’t take away from the natural elements; and there is a small gift shop with crane-related goodies to purchase. Speaking of which, most likely because of the property’s size, there are very little/no amenities on offer apart from a few restrooms. The only other visitor area in this establishment is the “Cranes & Culture Plaza,” a small rest area with a pretty water fountain, shady areas to relax, and several conservation features such as oriental-inspired prayer wheels from Nepal. While on the topic of conservation, I would like to finally mention the educational signage and features of this park. Not only is it overall top-notch, but it is also amongst the very best I’ve seen at any zoological park. This is evident immediately after turning around from the ticket booth; there is a large interactive room in addition to the windows into the sandhill crane exhibit. This serves as an introduction to the world of cranes, presenting what makes them stand out, their conservation values, behaviors, and everything else one may wish to know about the birds in question. Beyond that, every single habitat for each species emphasizes the plight they face in the wild, and relaying the efforts the ICF is making to conserve them both in the field and in Baraboo. All the signage and other educational elements are informative, colorful, and very effective. The facility does an excellent job in not just showcasing their animals, but also demonstrating why they are important to maintain on our planet.
HIGHLIGHT OF THE DAY: Of the birds I saw on display during my visit, it was my first viewing of the black-necked cranes that stood out the most. I enjoyed getting some close views of the animals as they waded in and out of their pond, and occasionally pausing to take vigilance of their surroundings.
OVERALL: Very few places take an idea or a particular species, and present them in a way that feels fresh or shines a new light on them; the International Crane Foundation is one of these. This establishment displays the Earth’s 15 crane species, while offering fantastic exhibitry and educational displays that offer a new appreciation for these unique birds; in fact, the latter in my opinion is the true magic of ICF. I walked away really impressed with what I saw, and can even see myself returning at some point, particularly for their whooping and Siberian crane area, along with ticking off the remaining species I have yet to see. As a result, I would highly recommend a visit to any zoo enthusiast and bird fanatic out there, as there is truly nothing like it. As long as one is okay with seeing only cranes on their visit, this facility is a worthy alternative to the major zoological parks.
Review of the International Crane Foundation
International Crane Foundation - International Crane Foundation
The International Crane Foundation can be found in Baraboo, Wisconsin. Two ornithology students, who wished to help conserve the world’s crane species, founded it in 1973. Since that time, the establishment has blossomed into the premiere resource in preserving this group of birds, creating a number of programs across the globe through in-situ conservation, reintroduction programs, and environmental research. Situated on nearly 300 acres, it is most well-known as the only institution on the planet with all 15 crane species – of which around 100 specimens reside at the park.
It was a real treat to see this facility, especially as it just reopened earlier this year after an excessive overhaul, having been closed since late 2018. Having seen this famous park myself, I can easily say that the renovation job really paid off. Not only does it give off a professional, new, and crisp appearance, but it goes above and beyond in the presentation and conservation of its species. Never have I seen a specific group of animals get this much focus and attention – the effort to help bring a new sense of appreciation and respect is admirable, especially for an animal that one may not think much of at first.
Animal Exhibit Complexes
Johnson Exhibit Pod – Based on photos and what I’ve read in the past, this group of exhibits was originally how most of the establishment was set up, with a circle of enclosures surrounding a holding building in the center. At first glance, the exhibits seem a bit basic in presentation, but upon closer inspection, they work quite well for the elegant birds. The enclosures all range from average to good in terms of size, feature nice and scenic ponds, and clumps of tall grass and other foliage complement the shorter grass to help give a more natural appearance. The viewing is primarily through mesh, but there are a couple species where viewing is from an open-air hut – specifically for blue and red-crowned cranes. If I did have to pick one element that is not as successful, it would be that some of the exhibits’ mesh ceilings are fairly low, making these look a little small if the birds wish to hop or dance. Other than that, it’s a set of bird habitats that look simple, but offer a lot at the same time. The crane species here include: sarus, blue, Eurasian (didn’t see), white-naped, hooded (didn’t see), and red-crowned.
Spirit of Africa – As the name of the complex (which opened in 2009) implies, birds from the Dark Continent are the denizens here. It begins with a black-crowned crane habitat that is similar in design to those in the Johnson Exhibit Pod, followed by a neat education area. It’s an African river display with a wetland mural, a tribal canoe, and a sculpture of a Nile hippo – a nice area for photos! Nearby are two more crane exhibits, for the demoiselle and grey crowned species, that are similar in appearance; each offer a good amount of space, lush greenery with a pond, and up-close viewing through mesh. The biggest area here is home to a pair of wattled cranes; this is the third largest crane habitat at the facility, and possibly this complex’s highlight. The green hills all lead down to a large marsh that looks beautiful and can also be seen via covered overlook, along with the main path that bends around one side of the enclosure. Only briefly did one of the birds stroll down to the pond, but I imagine it is quite a sight to see them lingering or wading through the water.
Whooping Crane Alcove & Wetlands Experience – This in my opinion is the crown jewel, and a great finale to the facility. Just after the Johnson complex, a minor incline takes one to a slightly open and grassy area. The build-up towards the pavilion is well-done with some interactive elements and other surrounding details. Some of these include finding animal statues that represent a crane’s natural diet, and crane prints in the trail. The covered pavilion beckons, but not before crossing a little bridge over a small marsh, which almost looks like it isolates the visitor area on an island – a nice touch. Tons of interpretive signage and information are the welcome wagon, highlighting how both whooping and Siberian cranes were on the brink of extinction, before intense efforts were put in to conserve them. It’s one of the pinnacles of this facility’s excellent educational displays, especially for one of its most well-known species. Speaking of which, the whooping crane habitat itself is phenomenal, one of the all-time greatest bird enclosures I’ve ever seen. A large amphitheater offers fantastic views over a big marsh by a hillside. One crane remained at the peak of the hill on the far side with only its head shown, while its mate came down to wade along the shore for a while, sometimes investigating the water with its beak. The best component here is how the hill looks like it blends into the forest seemingly just behind it – what a magnificent sight and design! Next door, the Siberian crane habitat (a first for me), while not as strong as their North American relatives, is also a great bird oasis, offering a hilly and grassy landscape fronted by a large pond. Unfortunately, I couldn’t get a great view of the species, as the one bird I saw was in a corner near its holding area, but I was thrilled to see this highly rare animal. Off-topic, but where else are Siberians held, as ICF is the only one I know of? On the whole, with its magnificent attention to detail in exhibitry and education, along with displaying two highly endangered species, it is easy to see how this is ICF at its strongest.
Other Exhibits – The very first exhibit can be seen right after paying admission. In the “Welcome Center,” large windows look into a lush, roomy habitat for sandhill cranes, along with outdoor viewing through mesh. Also, across from the Johnson Exhibit Pod, there are two more crane habitats that are not part of any specific area. These are mainly viewable via covered overlook, are a decent size and quality, and are the homes of black-necked crane (another first) and brolga (didn’t see).
Visitor Experiences
The Crane Foundation sits on a very large site – almost 300 acres; however, the primary grounds where visitors walk are surprisingly small. It’s easy to not only see the majority of the main site from the entrance path, but also spend about 1.5 hours at this facility at the most. Having said that, the grounds take advantage of the surrounding natural environment very well. There is a multitude of foliage along the main trail, rocks and boulders of varying sizes, the stream near the whooping and Siberian crane exhibits, and a magnificent view of the nature preserves one may hike through if they wish. Furthermore, the shiny new entrance complex looks like it fits into the scenery beautifully. The building design with its traditional-looking bricks and wood looks very pretty; the gathering area before entering is spacious; there are sculptures that look nice and don’t take away from the natural elements; and there is a small gift shop with crane-related goodies to purchase. Speaking of which, most likely because of the property’s size, there are very little/no amenities on offer apart from a few restrooms. The only other visitor area in this establishment is the “Cranes & Culture Plaza,” a small rest area with a pretty water fountain, shady areas to relax, and several conservation features such as oriental-inspired prayer wheels from Nepal. While on the topic of conservation, I would like to finally mention the educational signage and features of this park. Not only is it overall top-notch, but it is also amongst the very best I’ve seen at any zoological park. This is evident immediately after turning around from the ticket booth; there is a large interactive room in addition to the windows into the sandhill crane exhibit. This serves as an introduction to the world of cranes, presenting what makes them stand out, their conservation values, behaviors, and everything else one may wish to know about the birds in question. Beyond that, every single habitat for each species emphasizes the plight they face in the wild, and relaying the efforts the ICF is making to conserve them both in the field and in Baraboo. All the signage and other educational elements are informative, colorful, and very effective. The facility does an excellent job in not just showcasing their animals, but also demonstrating why they are important to maintain on our planet.
HIGHLIGHT OF THE DAY: Of the birds I saw on display during my visit, it was my first viewing of the black-necked cranes that stood out the most. I enjoyed getting some close views of the animals as they waded in and out of their pond, and occasionally pausing to take vigilance of their surroundings.
OVERALL: Very few places take an idea or a particular species, and present them in a way that feels fresh or shines a new light on them; the International Crane Foundation is one of these. This establishment displays the Earth’s 15 crane species, while offering fantastic exhibitry and educational displays that offer a new appreciation for these unique birds; in fact, the latter in my opinion is the true magic of ICF. I walked away really impressed with what I saw, and can even see myself returning at some point, particularly for their whooping and Siberian crane area, along with ticking off the remaining species I have yet to see. As a result, I would highly recommend a visit to any zoo enthusiast and bird fanatic out there, as there is truly nothing like it. As long as one is okay with seeing only cranes on their visit, this facility is a worthy alternative to the major zoological parks.
