The grey-crowned crane, Uganda’s national bird, is facing extinction due to climate change and human activities. Declining wetlands and habitat loss threaten their survival, with numbers dropping from 35,000 to about 22,000 over the last thirty years. Conservationists call for immediate protective measures and community awareness to preserve this important species.
Uganda’s national bird, the grey-crowned crane, is under severe threat of extinction as a result of climate change and human encroachment. This majestic species, known for its height exceeding one meter, is predominantly found in Africa’s wetland areas. In Uganda, where its numbers remain relatively stable, securing adequate food and breeding habitats is increasingly challenging due to environmental factors.
The recent climatic changes, particularly rising temperatures and extreme weather patterns in East Africa, are causing wetlands to dry up, thereby disrupting the ecosystem essential for the cranes’ survival. Judith Mirembe, chairperson of Uganda Women Birders, stated, “We’ve had a lot of weather variations and drastic weather changes in the country. The seasons have changed and all this affects both the birds and the insects.”
Over the last thirty years, Uganda has witnessed a significant reduction in wetland areas, where the current coverage has dropped from 15 percent to just 8 percent. Conservationists warn that without intervention, this might fall to a mere 1 percent by 2040. In addition to climate change, expanding agricultural demands and urban development are further diminishing the cranes’ breeding opportunities.
Bashir Hangi, the communication and public relations manager for the Uganda Wildlife Authority, noted that wetland destruction affects crane breeding. He stated, “When you destroy wetlands, some of them have laid eggs and you’re destroying the eggs as well, so how can you talk about growing the population of the crane when we are not allowing the eggs to hatch?”
Despite being designated as Uganda’s national bird, grey-crowned cranes are still hunted and targeted for use in traditional medicine. The Uganda Wildlife Authority, collaborating with the International Crane Foundation, is actively working on conservation initiatives to safeguard remaining populations. Citing efforts in Insingiro District, Hangi mentioned raising community awareness about the importance of this species.
The grey-crowned crane population has seen a decline from approximately 35,000 three decades ago to around 22,000 currently. Conservationists are advocating for enhanced protective measures and increased public education to avert further declines in their numbers.
In summary, the grey-crowned crane, Uganda’s national bird, faces severe threats from climate change, habitat loss, and human activities. Key conservationists emphasize the urgency for protective measures and public awareness campaigns to ensure the survival of this iconic species. As their population decreases significantly, immediate action is required to halt further decline.
Original Source: www.bastillepost.com
