Threat of Extinction for Uganda’s Grey-Crowned Crane: Urgent Action Needed

The grey-crowned crane, Uganda’s national bird, is at risk of extinction due to climate change and habitat loss. Wetlands have significantly declined, affecting crane populations. Urgent conservation actions and community awareness are needed to protect this iconic species, which has seen its numbers fall from 35,000 to 22,000 in thirty years.

The grey-crowned crane, Uganda’s national bird, is facing severe threats of extinction due to climate change and human activities. This iconic species, which stands over a meter tall, is increasingly struggling to find food and suitable breeding habitats as the impacts of climate change intensify. Conservationists have raised concerns that immediate action is required to protect this vulnerable bird.

In Uganda, where the population of grey-crowned cranes remains comparatively stable, the challenges posed by extreme weather patterns are evident. Rising temperatures are leading to the drying of wetlands, consequently affecting the entire ecosystem and significantly reducing the availability of food for the cranes. Judith Mirembe, chairperson of Uganda Women Birders, notes that variations in weather conditions adversely affect both birds and insects, disrupting their natural habitats.

The country’s wetlands have drastically diminished over the last thirty years, shrinking from 15 percent to a mere 8 percent of Uganda’s land. Conservationists warn that if this trend continues, wetlands could potentially decline to only 1 percent by the year 2040. In addition, the pressures from increased farmland demands and urban expansion further jeopardize the cranes’ breeding success and survival.

Bashir Hangi, communication and public relations manager of the Uganda Wildlife Authority, highlights the detrimental effects of wetland destruction on egg-laying cranes. He emphasizes that activities like land development disrupt the hatching process, which ultimately hampers population growth. Furthermore, despite being the national bird, the grey-crowned crane is still hunted and exploited within some communities for traditional medicine.

To address these pressing issues, the Uganda Wildlife Authority, in collaboration with the International Crane Foundation, is actively working to safeguard remaining crane populations. Initiatives have commenced in districts like Insingiro, where community awareness efforts aim to highlight the importance of the grey-crowned crane. Public perception is critical, as many individuals still regard the bird as inconsequential, leading to indiscriminate killings.

With the population of grey-crowned cranes having decreased from approximately 35,000 three decades ago to around 22,000 today, conservationists are calling for enhanced protections and increased public awareness. Without these measures, the future of this distinguished national emblem remains perilous.

The grey-crowned crane of Uganda is increasingly under threat due to climate change and human encroachment on wetlands. The population has dramatically decreased in recent decades, and concerted efforts by conservationists are essential to ensure its survival. Enhanced awareness and protections are critical to reversing current trends and preserving this iconic species for future generations.

Original Source: www.bastillepost.com