Exciting Blue Crane Update from Austin Roberts Bird Sanctuary, Pretoria!
We’re happy to share the latest on our resident Blue Cranes:
Last November a precious Blue Crane chick hatched here at the sanctuary.
Unfortunately it didn’t survive the fierce hailstorm that hit in December.
But these resilient birds often respond to loss by breeding again – and that’s exactly what our dedicated pair did!
They started a new clutch in January, and in February one healthy chick hatched.
We’re delighted to report that this little one is thriving and growing stronger every day.
The parents and their February juvenile are still safely tucked away in the quarantine camp next to Phillip’s house, where our team can monitor them closely and give them the best possible start.
The pair you’re currently seeing out in the reserve are our wonderful donated male and the young female who hatched here in November 2024.
———-
Did you know the Blue Crane (Anthropoides paradiseus) is South Africa’s national bird?
These elegant giants are instantly recognisable with their striking powder-blue plumage, long legs, and beautiful courtship dances.
They’re grassland specialists and a flagship species for conservation in our country – sadly listed as vulnerable due to habitat loss and other pressures.
Every chick that survives is a real victory!
Come and say hello – they’re often visible near the open grasslands!
Conservation is all about these ups and downs, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who supports the work at Austin Roberts Bird Sanctuary.
Your visits, donations and shared love for our birds help make stories like this possible.
Who else loves Blue Cranes? Drop a in the comments and tag a friend who needs to see this update