Number of Sarus cranes increases in Kailali

By Abinash Chaudhary,Dhangadhi, Aug. 26: Kailali has witnessed a rise in the number of Saru cranes, an exceedingly rare bird globally. 

In the previous year, only three Saru cranes were spotted, but this monsoon season five birds were sighted in the area.

Five rare Sarus cranes have been spotted in wards 3 and 8 of Bhajani Municipality. According to conservationist Bhoj Raj Dhungana from Tikapur Municipality-7, this year's count of these cranes has risen by two.

These birds were once common in Kailali, but they vanished for a while. Luckily, they have been coming back in recent years, said ornithologist Hirulal Dangaura. 

This bird stands around five feet tall and can weigh up to 10 kg. They build their nests in open wetlands, irrigated paddy fields, ponds, and lakes, where they care for their young.

Regarded as an indicator of wetlands and a symbol of a healthy ecological system, this bird holds unique significance. Surprisingly, it is recognised as the world's highest-flying bird. Being rare globally, it has earned protected status under Nepal's National Parks and Wildlife Protection Act 2029.

As per the Bird Conservation Nepal (BCN), the estimated count of Sarus cranes in Nepal falls between 450 and 700. Around 85 per cent of these birds are found in Rupandehi and Kapilvastu districts.

According to Dangaura, these birds offer more than just snake control. They contribute to agriculture by consuming harmful snails, insects, and other crop-damaging organisms.

Moreover, they play a role in alerting humans to potential danger. When predators like tigers and leopards approach, the birds' alert calls serve as an early warning system, helping people stay safe from these wild animals, he informed.

Puraina Lake, situated in Bhajani Municipality-7, used to be a habitat for these birds decades ago. 

Sadly, with the disappearance of the Pari Lake due to encroachment, the Sarus cranes vanished from there as well. 

However, there are reports of these birds being spotted in the vicinity of the area where the lake once existed.