Endangered Whooping Crane Dies Of Bird Flu At Wisconsin Wildlife Refuge

CBS Minnesota

October 1, 2025

The International Crane Foundation announced Monday that Ducky, an endangered female whooping crane the foundation planned to release into the wilds of Wisconsin this fall, died on Thursday after becoming infected with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, a strain of avian flu.

Foundation officials said in a news release that Ducky's death marks the first time the strain has killed a whooping crane.

Only about 700 wild whooping cranes are left in North America, according to the foundation. Ducky's death translates to a 1% decline in the eastern migratory population, which stands at fewer than 70 birds.

Click here for the full story via CBS Minnesota

CBS Local Digital Media personalizes the global reach of CBS-owned and operated television and radio stations with a local perspective.