George W. Archibald facts for kids
George William Archibald, born on July 13, 1946, is a famous Canadian scientist who studies birds, especially cranes. He helped start the International Crane Foundation, an organization dedicated to protecting cranes around the world. He also won a big award called the Indianapolis Prize in 2006 for his amazing work.
George grew up in New Glasgow, Canada. He studied at Dalhousie University and later earned a special degree from Cornell University.
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Saving Cranes
In 1973, many types of cranes were in big trouble. There were only a few left of some species, and they were close to disappearing forever. George Archibald, along with Ron Sauey, decided to do something about it. They started the International Crane Foundation in Wisconsin. George was the director for many years, from 1973 to 2000. Today, he still works to help cranes survive as part of a global conservation group. Even after 40 years, cranes still need our help.
A Special Friend: Tex the Crane
George Archibald came up with clever ways to help raise crane chicks. Sometimes, he even wore a special crane costume! This helped the young cranes feel safe and learn how to be cranes without getting too used to humans.
One of his most famous stories is about a very rare whooping crane named Tex. George spent three years with Tex, acting like a male crane. He would walk, call, and dance with her. This helped Tex get ready to lay an egg. With George's dedication and some special help, Tex finally laid a fertile egg.
George shared this amazing story on a TV show in 1982. He surprised everyone when he told them the sad ending. Tex passed away shortly after her one and only chick hatched. George's work with Tex inspired a children's book in 2016 called Dancing with Tex: The Remarkable Friendship to Save the Whooping Cranes.
Protecting Crane Homes
To protect the places where cranes live, like wetlands and grasslands, George Archibald has traveled to many faraway places. He has visited countries like Afghanistan, Cuba, India, and Russia. He even went to the Korean Demilitarized Zone, a special area between North and South Korea. His goal is to help protect these important habitats and the long paths cranes use when they migrate.
Awards and Recognition
George Archibald has received many important awards for his work. In 1984, he was given a special grant from the MacArthur Fellows Program for his efforts to save cranes. In 1987, the UN honored him by adding him to their Global 500 Roll of Honour. This award recognizes people who have done great things for the environment. In 2012, he was made a Member of the Order of Canada, which is one of the highest honors a Canadian citizen can receive.
