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South African Blue Crane, Our national
bird
Johannesburg, January 2008
Research has shown that The Blue Crane, South Africa's National
Bird, has declined drastically to around 25 000 individuals.
Cranes are large, conspicuous birds and are often the first to
disappear under increased environmental pressure. They therefore
act as indicators of the health of our environment, particularly
of grasslands and wetlands. Cranes are dependent on these and we
as humans rely on them for our survival too. South Africa is
world-renown for its biodiversity, and our grasslands and
wetlands support a rich diversity of species.
Guided by the above, the Johannesburg
Zoo has started breeding cranes in which these Cranes will be
donated to help in developing preservation programme for the
cranes. The purpose of this programme is that the offspring
could be released should the wild population needs to be
supplemented.
By promoting crane conservation the zoo
play a role in encouraging safe environmental practices,
environmental education and sustainable utilization of these
resources for the benefit of all. Cranes promote ecotourism and
job creation Ecotourism is blossoming in South Africa, with
birding trips in particular growing at a rapid rate.
So far the zoo has new additions in
their cranes enclosures. The babies are currently on exhibit at
the Nyala camp.
For more information contact Jeanne
Marie Pittman at: 011-646-2000 ext 239
Cell: 072-874-9711.
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