Zambia holds a special place in global crane conservation. The country hosts more than half of the world’s Vulnerable Wattled Crane (Bugeranus carunculatus) population, alongside the Endangered Grey Crowned Crane (Balearica regulorum). These iconic birds depend on vast wetlands such as the Kafue Flats, Bangweulu Wetlands, Liuwa Plain National Park, Busanga Swamps, and Barotse Floodplains for their survival.
This summer, the International Crane Foundation in Zambia partnered with the Mumbwa District Health Office to conduct a voluntary health screening for Wildlife Police Officers, Community Scouts, International Crane Foundation staff, and their families at Blue Lagoon National Park.
A local grassroots celebration of cranes has now grown into a national platform for education, cultural exchange, and conservation action.
Deep in northern Rwanda lies Rugezi Marsh, a 6,735-hectare high-altitude peatland that plays a crucial role in both biodiversity and people’s daily lives. The marsh is not only a breeding site for more than 25% of Rwanda’s Grey Crowned Crane population, but it also regulates the water flow to Burera and Ruhondo lakes—vital sources of the country’s hydroelectric power.
As South Africa celebrates Heritage Month, and ahead of marking Heritage Day on September 24, the Endangered Wildlife Trust/International Crane Foundation partnership has launched its new Blue Crane project focusing on habitat restoration, addressing threats posed by infrastructure, collaborating with partners such as farmers, and monitoring and research.
How do you secure a floodplain of international significance for wildlife and people, reverse ecological degradation, and promote sustainable development and livelihoods for one million Zambians?
There is growing concern for the future of South Africa’s national bird, the Blue Crane, which has been uplisted from Near Threatened to Vulnerable in the Regional Red Data Book 2025. The uplisting reflects a high risk of extinction for the species in the wild.
Earlier this month, the International Crane Foundation, along with government officials, partners, universities, and others, celebrated the project’s past successes and introduced future conservation plans – including the Foundation’s registration as an authorized NGO in Rwanda and a new office space in Kigali.
The humble oyster mushroom has become an unexpected hero in the story of rural economic empowerment—one that is intimately connected to the conservation of the Endangered Grey Crowned Crane and the wetlands they call home.
