Sarus Crane [UPSC Notes]

In March 2022, a man in Uttar Pradesh was booked under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 for friendship with a bird, the Sarus crane. In this article, you can learn more about the Sarus crane, its conservation status, and other details for the IAS exam. This topic assumes importance from the environment and ecology perspective. 

Sarus Crane

Image source: www.indiatoday.in

The Sarus crane (Antigone antigone) is a large, long-legged bird. They are the world’s tallest flying birds, with a height of around 150 cm.

Habitat:

• Sarus cranes are found in wetlands, marshes, and grasslands. 
• They are mostly found in India, Nepal, and parts of Southeast Asia. 
• In India, they are commonly found in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, and Assam. 
• They are usually found in wetlands.
• It is the state bird of Uttar Pradesh.
• They are also found in parts of Australia, particularly in Queensland and the Northern Territory.

Conservation Status:

• The Sarus crane is classified as “vulnerable” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). 
• It is protected under Schedule 3 of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. 

Threats to the population of Saras cranes:

• The major threats to their survival are habitat loss and degradation, hunting, and disturbance to breeding areas. 
• The bird is also at risk from pesticides and other pollutants.

Cultural Significance in India:

• The Sarus crane is considered a sacred bird in many parts of India, particularly in the state of Uttar Pradesh. It is also the state bird of Uttar Pradesh.
• In Hindu mythology, the bird is associated with Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe. According to legend, the bird’s red head is said to be a symbol of Lord Brahma’s creative energy. 
• The bird is also associated with fertility and prosperity.

Conservation of the Sarus Crane

1. Habitat conservation and restoration: The Saras Crane is a wetland bird, and therefore, it is crucial to protect and conserve the wetlands where they live. Encroachment of wetlands by human activities like agriculture, urbanization, and industrialization should be avoided. Restoration of degraded wetlands can provide additional habitat for the Saras Crane. This can be achieved through the planting of native vegetation, controlling invasive species, and regulating water flow.
2. Awareness campaigns: Raising awareness among local communities and stakeholders about the importance of Saras Crane conservation. This can be achieved through education campaigns, community outreach programs, and media campaigns.
3. Legal protection: The Saras Crane is protected under the Wildlife Protection Act of India. The law prohibits the killing, hunting, or capturing of this species. Enforcing this law and increasing penalties for violators can help to deter illegal activities that harm the Saras Crane population.
4. Sustainable agriculture practices: Saras Cranes rely on agricultural fields for food, and therefore, sustainable agriculture practices that reduce the use of pesticides and herbicides can help to protect the birds and their food sources.
5. International cooperation: Saras Cranes migrate to other countries such as Pakistan, Nepal, and Southeast Asia. International cooperation in the conservation of this species is also crucial.

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