grey crowned cranes www.olpejetaconservancy.org GREY CROWNED CRANES are one of 15 species of crane. Their name comes from the impressive spray of stiff golden feathers that form a crown around their heads. Crowned cranes inhabit a range of wetlands and prefer short to medium height open grasslands for foraging. THREATS TO CROWNED CRANES The grey crowned crane is categorised as Endangered in the IUCN Red List. Populations have decreased significantly, estimated at around 80% since 1985. The main threats to cranes are habitat loss, illegal trade, and poisoning. They are considered status symbols among the wealthy. Birds are captured and eggs removed and illegally sold in large numbers. As human settlements expand, cranes are closer to farmland which they forage millet and potatoes. Large numbers are killed each year in Kenya as retaliation or to prevent crop damage. CROWNED CRANES AT OL PEJETA Ol Pejeta sits in Laikipia County which has the 5th largest crowned crane population in Kenya. In 2019, nearly 160 crown cranes were counted at the conservancy. Unfortunately, the population has been observed to be OL PEJETA on a decline. 160 POPULATION The cranes utilise marshy areas across the conservancy. Flocks of 10- 30 individuals are often observed on neighbouring wheat farms. They migrate into Ol Pejeta in search of food and are seen in large numbers during the rainy season. DID YOU KNOW? CROWNED CRANES TRACKS Crowned cranes mate for life. They dance together and preen each others necks to help strengthen their bond. www.olpejetaconservancy.org [email protected] .