It is 1 of 15 locations in the HWI network of migration study sites. The information gathered in these studies enables us to better understand the life histories, ecology, status, and conservation needs of raptor populations in North America. Because raptors occupy large home ranges, inhabit most ecosystems, and are sensitive to environmental contamination and other human disturbances, they serve as important biological indicators of ecosystem health. At this time of year, back in the days before Gull Point was closed, we would walk along the beach and quietly enjoy watching little sanderlings following the wet scalloped edges that the retreating waves left in the sand. A couple of rare whooping cranes that have never left home take off on a summer vacation.
Whooping cranes are extremely rare birds and have only a few homes in North America.
One small flock migrates every year between northern Canada and a wildlife refuge in Texas. Another flock lives all year long at a refuge in central Florida. The birds in Florida were raised in captivity before they were put into the refuge, and they rarely go far from home. But two of them have puzzled some biologists by taking off on an extended trip to the Midwest. The National Audubon Society of New York State congratulates Governor George E. Pataki for adding to his strong record of environmental leadership by signing Assembly Bill 1157 into law.