The crested crane, a beloved symbol of Uganda, is facing a dire future as its population declines. Recognizable by its striking golden crown, red throat pouch, and slender black legs, this bird holds a special place in Ugandan culture, appearing on the national flag and coat of arms. Yet, despite its cultural significance, the crested crane is now at risk of extinction due to various environmental pressures and human activities.
Threats to the crested crane population
Despite being protected under Ugandan law, the crested crane continues to be threatened by habitat loss and poisoning. The law imposes severe penalties, including life imprisonment and hefty fines for those found guilty of killing a crane. However, these legal measures have not deterred some farmers, particularly in western Uganda, where cranes are often viewed as pests rather than protected wildlife.
“I really don’t see any value in these birds because all they do is raid our plantations and eat our crops,” said Tom Mucunguzi, a maize farmer near Mbarara.
As the population of humans in Uganda grows, the increased demand for agricultural land has led to encroachment into wetland areas, which are vital habitats for the crested cranes. With their numbers declining drastically from over 100,000 in the 1970s to just about 10,000 today, conservationists warn that urgent action is needed to prevent further loss.
Conservation efforts and community involvement
Conservationists like Dan Sseruge, a Ugandan ornithologist, express deep concern over the future of these birds. “Despite its serenity, beauty and popularity, the bird is facing a serious threat. It means that if no urgent measures are taken to reverse this trend, we might see the cranes pushed to extinction,” he stated.
Efforts are underway to address the issues facing the crested cranes, including the promotion of alternative methods for farmers to protect their crops. Conservation officers are recommending the use of scarecrows instead of lethal measures like poisoning. “One of the biggest threats against cranes is poisoning by the farmers,” said Gilbert Tayebwa, a conservation officer at the International Crane Foundation (ICF).
Moreover, local communities are being engaged in conservation initiatives aimed at restoring wetlands. President Yoweri Museveni has announced efforts to reclaim wetland areas, designating 2025 as the year of wetland conservation. Various organizations are also working to monitor crane populations and protect their breeding grounds, hoping to stabilize and eventually increase their numbers.
As the Ugandan government and conservation groups work collaboratively, the road ahead remains challenging. The beauty and cultural significance of the crested crane must be matched with effective conservation strategies to ensure this iconic bird does not vanish from Uganda’s landscapes.