BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) -- Endangered whooping cranes have been sighted in south central North Dakota.
The Game and Fish Department says groups of three birds have been observed in Burleigh and Kidder counties.
The birds are federally protected, and wildlife officials urge people not to disturb them. They also ask observers to report any sightings.
Waterfowl biologist Mike Szymanski (shuh-MAN'-skee) says this is the time of year when whoopers fly south, and their migration route takes them over North Dakota.
The birds are about 5 feet tall and have a wingspan of about 7 feet. They are white with black wing tips. In flight they extend their long necks straight forward, and their legs extend out behind them. They usually fly alone or in small groups, sometimes with sandhill cranes.
