BISMARCK, ND (KXNET) — Since fall began in North Dakota, we've had some colder mornings this past week. So have the birds, and many of them are taking the cue to head south before winter begins. If you're out and about and hear that distinct bugle call, it may be coming from whooping cranes, who are taking flight for their long fall migration. Five hundred birds are departing from their nesting grounds in Alberta and the Northwest Territories. They have a long journey ahead of them, as they will fly 2,500 miles to get to the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge in Texas. Game and Fish seeks help in monitoring deer mortality Their usual flight path will take them over North Dakota air space in the next several weeks. Not to be confused with sandhill cranes, whooping cranes can be identified by their bright white bodies and black wing tips. They commonly fly singly or in groups of two to three birds. If you happen to spot them taking a break or flying high above, North Dakota Game and Fish encourages you to record the date, time and location of where you saw them. You can report that information to their office or to the U-S Fish and Wildlife Service.Biologists use the reports to monitor the birds' activity and migration routes as well as locate important habitat areas where they may be staying. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW