Seeking Names for Siberian Cranes

Ripley Waterfowl Conservancy in Litchfield, Conn., is offering naming rights for the two rare Siberian cranes that are now in residence in  the center’s Crane Habitat. The cranes are a critically endangered species. Organizations such as Ripley are not only protecting the birds but also helping to continue their bloodlines by creating safe conditions for them to breed. The 4-year-old female and 7-year-old male are two of only 19 Siberian Cranes in captivity in the U.S.

Both birds are about 5 feet tall and have thoughtful eyes, long slender legs and beaks, and graceful wings that open up to reveal black feathers at the tips.

Each donation directly supports the care of the many birds at Ripley, including the cranes.  

Online bidding for the right to choose a name for one of the cranes will continue until Feb. 28. The names will be displayed alongside the name of the donor on an acknowledgment sign outside the Crane Habitat.  

In addition, the high bidders will win a behind-the-scenes “Feed the Cranes” experience with Ripley’s Director of Aviculture, Andrew Ocampo, a noted specialist in helping birds in captivity to breed.  

For inspiration on choosing a name, visit Ripley’s website to see a short video of the cranes, performing what sounds like a jazz concert with their distinctive honking, www.ripleyconservancy.org/siberian-crane-silent-auction.html.

— Cynthia Hochswender