The future of common cranes in Scotland is continuing to look bright, with 2022 proving another successful year for our tallest birds.
Bouncing back from extinction
Wild cranes were once common across the UK, before becoming extinct in the 16th century due to hunting and the loss of their favoured wetland habitat. In 1979, a small number of wild birds returned to England but it wasn’t until 2012 that the first breeding cranes were recorded here in Scotland.
Since returning the number of cranes in Scotland and the UK has expanded rapidly, and 2022 was another good year, with at least 71 pairs present across the UK, 6 of these pairs were in Scotland. Of these, up to 64 pairs attempted to breed and fledged 39 young. Three of Scotland’s pairs were confirmed to have bred and for the second year running four chicks fledged in here, bringing the total number of chicks fledged here since 2012 to 20. Just brilliant news!
The bounce back from extinction means the UK population is now estimated at well over 200 birds. North East Scotland is home to all the known birds in Scotland, which make up more than 10% of the UK population.
Photo by Nick Upton (rspb-images.com)
Not so tiny dancers
Standing at an impressive height of 4ft, they are the UK’s tallest bird. But they are also famed for their elaborate mating dance. The displays, with bows, pirouettes and bobs, take place every year between the male and female at the beginning of the breeding season. Cranes are naturally secretive during this period and can be difficult to spot, however they can be seen more easily at other times of year.
Habitat
Protecting and restoring peat bogs and other wetlands in this area would not only benefit cranes but help other wildlife as well as storing vast amounts of carbon
A bright future for Cranes?
The outlook for cranes is looking good in Scotland and across the UK, with populations predicted to continue to expand. Hopefully, more of us will get the chance to watch and listen to these amazing birds.
If you’re in or around the Aberdeenshire area and spot a crane let us know email?
Find out more about the outlook for cranes across the UK here
Main photo by Andy Hay (rspb-images.com)