This research centers on The Watershed Institute’s (TWI) Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) model, with two primary objectives. First, to reconstruct the TWI HSI model, originally based on a priori hypotheses and GIS data, using ArcGIS Pro 3.x software. Subsequently, to verify and validate the model's results against independently collected telemetered whooping crane locations, quantifying TWI HSI habitat assessment scores against real crane use patterns. Based on the verification and validation outcomes, the research aimed to refine the TWI model's habitat criteria. The result of these efforts will serve as a critical foundation for conservation efforts within the Kansas portion of the Aransas-Wood Buffalo Population migratory corridor.

This study developed a habitat suitability model to identify migratory stopover sites used by the endangered Whooping Crane (Grus americana) in Kansas. Using presence-absence data collected during migration seasons, a series of random forest models were trained on spatial and temporal environmental variables. The analysis incorporated telemetry data to improve model accuracy and capture dynamic stopover behavior across years.