White-Naped Cranes Born In Seattle For First Time

SEATTLE, WA — Woodland Park Zoo made small, downy history in July when two white-naped crane chicks were born, the first of that species ever born at the zoo.

The unnamed chicks were born on July 9 and 10 to parents Laura, 8, and Cal, 9. The zoo has had white-naped cranes for about 30 years, but none ever produced offspring.

The cranes, native to China, Russia, and Mongolia, are considered a vulnerable species with only about 8,000 living in the wild, according to the International Crane Foundation. They grow to be about 4 feet tall — and much of that height is due to their long, white necks.

"This is such a significant hatching and a symbol of hope for the vulnerable species," Woodland Park Zoo bird curator Mark Myers said in a press release. "The successful breeding and hatching are attributed to the bond between the parents, the quality of their habitat, and the expert day-to-day care and dedication provided by our animal keepers. We’re very proud of our team and our new parents."

The new chicks will be available to see on Asian Wildlife Conservation Day at Woodland Park Zoo on Aug. 10.