Wattled cranes, the tallest flying birds in the African continent, are no longer on the brink of extinction. Thanks to consistent conservation efforts, they have moved from a critical status to a lower-risk category.
These birds, which can reach up to 1.8 meters in height with a wingspan of 2.6 meters, mainly inhabit wetlands and grasslands. Their uniqueness lies not only in their size but also in their elaborate courtship rituals.
The population in South Africa showed positive signs: in the KwaZulu-Natal province, breeding areas increased from 70 in 1999 to 84 today. This progress is crucial for their recovery.
The effort was led by the Endangered Wildlife Trust and the International Crane Foundation, in collaboration with rural communities and landowners where these birds nest and feed.
Wetland Restoration is Vital
Wattled cranes require healthy ecosystems to survive. Wetlands represent up to 40% of their breeding habitat, while the surrounding natural grasslands are essential for nesting and feeding.
In addition to supporting these birds, wetlands provide water to many rural villages and prevent soil erosion. However, human activities have endangered them for decades.
In the 1970s, South Africa lost nearly 50% of its wetlands due to agricultural expansion. This landscape transformation was a key factor that pushed the species to the brink of collapse.
The cranes feed on lilies, insects, snails, and frogs. Sites with good food supply allow their chicks to grow over 2.5 centimeters per week after hatching.
A Promising Yet Fragile Future
Although they are no longer in critical condition, their population remains low: less than 400 individuals in KwaZulu-Natal. This leaves them vulnerable to diseases and other extreme events.
The goal now is to restore wetlands in different regions of the country to expand their breeding possibilities and reduce their species’ fragility.
The story of the wattled cranes shows that, with commitment and cooperation, it is possible to reverse environmental damage and give wildlife a second chance.
The Rescue of Africa’s Tallest Cranes
Wattled cranes, the tallest flying birds in Africa, were on the brink of extinction due to habitat loss, wetland drainage, and agricultural expansion. Their population plummeted drastically over decades until a series of coordinated actions managed to reverse their fate.
In addition to conserving wetlands, crucial for their food and reproduction, educational campaigns helped reduce nest looting and human disturbance. Thanks to these measures, the species went from “critically endangered” to “endangered,” a significant advancement in their recovery.
The case of the wattled cranes demonstrates that cooperation between science, conservation, and communities can achieve tangible results. They are still vulnerable, but they are no longer doomed to disappear.
