Bird lovers and members of the public are being encouraged to take part in South Africa’s first National Crane Census in nearly 20 years.

Four-day national census

The census, organised by the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) in partnership with the International Crane Foundation, will take place from July 24 to 27 and aims to gather valuable information about the country’s crane populations.

How to take part

Residents who spot cranes during the four-day census are asked to record the species, the number of birds seen and the location, and submit the information via WhatsApp to 060 086 9053.

The census is a citizen science project, meaning anyone can contribute by reporting sightings.

Helping conservation efforts

The information collected will help conservationists better understand where cranes occur, how their populations are changing and where conservation efforts are most needed.

South Africa is home to three crane species – the Blue Crane, the country’s national bird, as well as the Wattled Crane and the Grey Crowned Crane.

Conservationists say every sighting counts and are encouraging anyone who sees cranes during the census period to report them and play a role in protecting these iconic birds.

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.