Cranes CONNECT US
A world where cranes can flourish — and people can thrive.
A GLOBAL
CONSERVATION EFFORT
Over five decades, we have grown dramatically in global reach and impact while protecting the landscapes that sustain cranes, people and many other species. Cranes truly are ambassadors for conservation, representing some of the most important places on Earth.
Conserving all 15 species of cranes requires a broad commitment to the people and places essential to cranes. Since our inception in 1973, the International Crane Foundation has dramatically grown in reach and impact, while steadily developing our capacity to address the health of the landscapes that sustain not only cranes but also people and a wealth of biological diversity.
Our work spans five key regions: East Asia, Global Headquarters, North America, Sub-Saharan Africa, and South/Southeast Asia. This global presence enables us to implement effective conservation strategies tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities in each region.
OUR WORK IN THE FIELD
Get A Cranes of Wisconsin License Plate for the Whole Flock
The International Crane Foundation will receive a $25 donation for each registered new plate and every time you renew your license plate in the future. By doing so, you can show your support for cranes and give an easy recurring gift to support our work with Sandhill and Whooping Cranes in Wisconsin.
International Crane Foundation Partners in Zambia to Manage and Restore Blue Lagoon and Lochinvar National Parks
The International Crane Foundation recently signed a 20-year collaborative partnership agreement to help restore and manage Blue Lagoon and Lochinvar National Parks of the Kafue Flats in Zambia, home to the largest population of Endangered Wattled Cranes and Kafue Lechwe antelope.
Returning Sarus Cranes to Tram Chim National Park
This spring, our Curator of Birds, Kim Boardman, and Director of Conservation Medicine, Dr. Diana Boon, traveled to Vietnam and Thailand to join Dr. Tran Triet, our Southeast Asia Program Director.
By the Numbers
ICF is making an impact for communities, cranes, and other species around the world.
1 Million+
People impacted by protecting Zambia’s Kafue Flats
100,000
Estimated Sandhill Crane population in North America’s Eastern Population
369
Students attending Crane School at Poyang Lake, China, since 2019
6
Whooping Crane breeding partners in North America
HOW WE WORK
Our focus areas are scientifically grounded to make significant impact for Cranes, Crane habitats, and the global conservation movement.
Community Based Conservation
Working with communities living in and near key crane habitats to develop conservation plans that meet their health, economic, and livelihood needs.
Protected Areas Management
Working with communities living in and near key crane habitats to develop conservation plans that meet their health, economic, and livelihood needs.
Cranes of the World at ICF Headquarters
Educating site visitors about crane species from around the world and ICF’s mission to protect them while improving human livelihoods and wellbeing.
Communications
Raising awareness about the importance of cranes and crane habitat conservation through TV, radio, social media, member newsletters, and in-person events.
Scientific Basis for Work
Grounding all conservation work in sound scientific principles throughout all our research, data analysis and decision making.
Working Together
We partner with governments, local communities, scientists, and donors worldwide to conserve crane habitats, develop sustainable solutions, and inspire positive change. By focusing on community-based conservation, education, and effective communication, we’re not just saving cranes—we’re improving livelihoods, fostering biodiversity, and tackling global ecological challenges.
Together, we’re creating a world where crane conservation leads to improved lives, healthy ecosystems, and a thriving planet. Please consider joining our cause.
THE WORLD OF CRANES
Explore the beautiful world cranes, among the most endangered species of birds in the world, with ten of the 15 species threatened by extinction. Discover species, range maps, listen to Crane calls, and learn why we’re all connected to Cranes by culture and environment.
FLY WITH US
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