Rare Sarus cranes spotted in Ratanpur wetland

By Avinash ChaudharyDhangadhi, July 27:The wetlands of southern Kanchanpur district are showing a promising presence of rare Sarus cranes. These majestic birds have been regularly spotted in wetlands like Ratanpur and Puraine Lake.

Recently, 13 Sarus cranes were spotted in the marshes of the Ratanpur wetland, located in Belauri Rural Municipality-5. Wildlife photographer Kulraj Chaudhary confirmed the sighting, saying, “We saw many cranes, though they were quite far away.”

Locals have reported sightings of cranes nesting and reproducing in the Ratanpur wetland area. Last year, a crane chick was spotted there. Ornithologist Hirulal Dangaura said, “It is the breeding season for Sarus cranes. However, due to the vast marshland, no nests have been found yet.”

Previously, 22 Sarus cranes were seen near the southern part of Shuklaphanta National Park’s Sikari Lake. With 13 cranes now observed in Ratanpur, it holds the second-largest number in the area. 

According to Dangaura, Kanchanpur has a better presence of Sarus cranes compared to Bardiya and Kailali districts and they have been sighted in multiple wetlands throughout the district.

The Sarus crane is listed as a vulnerable species on the IUCN Red List and is considered an indicator of a healthy wetland ecosystem. Their presence reflects the ecological well-being of such habitats. They also help control snake populations and feed on harmful insects, supporting crop production. Additionally, they are known to make loud alarm calls when predators such as tigers or leopards approach.

However, the increasing use of pesticides in farming and the unplanned exploitation of water bodies are degrading wetlands, posing a serious threat to Sarus habitats. Dangaura warned that the rapid destruction of wetlands is becoming a major challenge for these birds.

Nepal is home to four species of cranes, with the Black-necked crane and Sarus crane being among the rarest globally. The western Tarai region, particularly around Lumbini, hosts the highest population of Sarus cranes in the country.