Charlie Shafer Charlie Shafer worked as an Intern in 2006 for Operation Migration's team. He now works full time at Patuxent WRC where the chicks hatch. Charlie has a college degree in biology. He helps as a crane handler in summer for "Flight School" at Necedah. Charlie is part of the ground crew during the migration. He helps drive, set up the travel pen, and capture/transport cranes in his tracking van when necessary. Charlie provides "ground cover," keeping in radio contact with pilots and other team members while keeping the birds in sight as much as possible. As a tracker, Charlie needs to be ready to locate, catch and retrieve any bird that drops out while the flight is in progress.   Journey North is pleased to feature this educational adventure made possible by the Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership (WCEP). This Season Teachers Kids Orientation Registration Search Copyright 1997-2009 Journey North. All Rights Reserved. Questions or comments? Contact us.