Grus Americana is a species of large bird commonly referred to as the whooping crane. Synonyms for this bird include the whooper, the Grus Canadensis Americanus, the American crane, and the thunderbird. These common names reflect the bird's size, distinctive and loud call, and its North American habitat. The whooping crane resides mainly in Canada and the United States and is considered an endangered species due to habitat loss and hunting. Efforts to protect and conserve the species have been ongoing for many years, with success stories including successful reintroduction programs and increased public awareness of the bird's plight.