International Crane Foundation Leads Conservation Efforts to Save Kenya’s Grey Crowned Cranes

The International Crane Foundation (ICF), in collaboration with  Endangered World Trust, is spearheading a large-scale conservation initiative aimed at protecting Kenya’s wetlands and reversing the rapid decline of the Grey Crowned Crane population. Once a common sight across East Africa, the Grey Crowned Crane is now one of the most threatened crane species globally, with its population plummeting from over 35,000 in 1986 to just 10,000 today. Experts attribute this alarming decline to habitat destruction, climate change, illegal wildlife trade, and poisoning by farmers who view the birds as a threat to their crops.

A Species Under Threat

The Grey Crowned Crane, known for its striking golden crown of feathers, faces a multitude of challenges that have pushed it to the brink of extinction. Mwangi Joseph, Kenya National Manager for Crane International Foundation, highlighted the severity of the situation.

“Over the past 35 years, we have witnessed a dramatic decline in the Grey Crowned Crane population. The primary threats include habitat loss due to wetland encroachment, increased use of pesticides and chemicals in farming, and illegal poaching for the pet trade,” Joseph explained.

Wetlands, which serve as the primary breeding grounds for cranes, have been disappearing at an alarming rate. Agricultural expansion, land reclamation, and erratic weather patterns driven by climate change have led to the destruction of these critical ecosystems. Farmers, seeking more land for cultivation, have drained wetlands, destroyed natural vegetation, and introduced harmful chemicals that pollute water sources, rendering them unsuitable for crane breeding.

Vivian Kitui visits a kitchen garden owned by a farmer in Kasisiywa, Nandi County. The garden is part of an ICF initiative aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture and reducing farming activities in wetlands. Image by Hubz Media.

Compounding the problem, some farmers perceive cranes as pests that damage crops, leading to cases of intentional poisoning. “There is a widespread misconception that cranes cause significant harm to farms, which has resulted in their persecution and poisoning. This has further accelerated their population decline,” Joseph added.

 A Multi-Faceted Approach to Conservation

In response to these challenges, the International Crane Foundation and its partners have launched a comprehensive conservation strategy that integrates environmental protection with sustainable livelihoods for communities living near wetlands. The initiative aims to create solutions that benefit both people and wildlife.

A key component of this strategy is the establishment of enriched buffer zones. These areas are planted with indigenous trees, fruit-bearing plants, and crops that serve dual ecological and economic purposes. Vivian Kitui, a representative from the International Crane Foundation, elaborated on the benefits of this approach.

“The enriched buffer zones include indigenous trees, Napier grass, fruit trees, and even beehives. These elements not only protect the wetlands but also provide food and income for local communities. By offering farmers alternative sources of livelihood, we reduce their reliance on wetland resources,” Kitui explained.

The foundation has also implemented spring protection programs in Nandi and Trans Nzoia counties, ensuring communities have access to clean water. This initiative serves as an incentive for locals to participate in conservation efforts, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.

Farmers as Conservation Champions

Local farmers have emerged as critical allies in the fight to save the Grey Crowned Crane. Many have embraced sustainable farming techniques that minimize their impact on wetlands while improving their livelihoods.

Benard Kemei, a farmer from Kapsisiwa in Nandi County, is one of the beneficiaries of the Crane Foundation’s initiatives. He praised the organization for its support and training, which have enabled him and his community to protect wetlands while boosting their income.

“The foundation has provided us with indigenous trees, beehives, and avocado plants, which have helped us maintain the wetlands while also improving our income. They have also awarded scholarships to our children, ensuring that the next generation understands the importance of conservation,” Kemei said.

Kemei emphasized the need for continued community engagement, urging fellow farmers to support conservation efforts. “We must continue protecting the Grey Crowned Cranes. The foundation has taught us farming techniques that allow us to cultivate without encroaching on wetlands. It’s our responsibility to safeguard the environment for future generations,” he added.

Emmaculate Lagat, another beneficiary, highlighted the role of organic farming in conservation. “We were trained to grow vegetables without harmful chemicals. Now, we use organic seedbeds and natural pest repellents instead of chemical pesticides. This has not only protected the wetlands but also improved our health and food security,” Lagat explained.

 Signs of Hope

Despite the grim statistics, conservation efforts are beginning to yield positive results. Recent population censuses conducted between 2019 and 2023 indicate a stabilization in crane numbers, suggesting that community-based interventions are making a difference.

Mwangi Joseph remains cautiously optimistic about the future of crane conservation in Kenya but stresses the need for sustained efforts. “Protecting the cranes is not just about saving a species—it’s about preserving our wetlands, securing clean water sources, and ensuring that farmers can sustain their livelihoods without harming the environment. This fight requires the collective efforts of conservationists, government agencies, and the community,” he said.

The International Crane Foundation continues to advocate for stronger policies, increased funding, and public awareness to support wetland conservation. With continued investment in education, sustainable agriculture, and habitat restoration, there is hope that the Grey Crowned Crane will once again thrive in its natural habitat.

As conservationists and communities rally together, the message is clear: protecting wetlands is not just about saving cranes—it’s about safeguarding the future of biodiversity and ensuring sustainable development for generations to come.

About Author