In celebration of World Wetlands Day we would like to highlight the reserve area at RSU.
You may value the reserve as a scenic, quite getaway where one can enjoy nature. Did you know that the wetlands play a vital part in the survival of several species? The wetlands at the reserve are home to many birds, including cranes. These cranes rely on the wetlands for survival and use this area as home, a place to live, breed, eat, & nest.
Here are some pictures of a beautiful crane meandering through the wetlands found at the reserve.
Photo by Brett Nixon
In Oklahoma there is one migratory species of crane that is sadly on the Endangered Species list, the Whooping Crane. Loss of habitat is one contributing factor to loss of numbers. As the whooping crane migrates he relies on wetland areas, including those found in Oklahoma, to stop rest and refuel along his long journey.
Perhaps this spring we will be lucky enough to have the privilege of hosting one of these cranes in the reserve wetlands as he migrates back north.
If you are interested in learning more about the whooping crane you may visit the following links:
Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation
All About Birds.org
Endangered Species Coalition
More information about World Wetland Day and the importance of wetlands may be found at the links below.
National Wildlife Federation
EPA
