Grey Crowned Crane threat assessment around the wetlands of eastern Uganda

Abstract

The Grey Crowned Crane Balearica regulorum was uplisted to globally Endangered in 2012. There is urgent need to determine the threats they face at local levels for their conservation. I conducted formal point-count surveys around the wetlands of eastern Uganda and observed no cranes. Groups of cranes were encountered when following directions from local inhabitants. Results from a questionnaire survey suggested that cranes make use of most of the wetlands in the region, and that the birds occur in small flocks averaging 6–8 individuals. Wetland loss through farming was reported to be the main threat, but I also documented poisoning, roost disturbance, and the collection of eggs and chicks. Rigorous conservation and education programs are needed to ensure the long-term survival of cranes and storks in this region.

Keywords: agriculture, eastern Uganda, Grey Crowned Crane, wetlands