Black-necked Cranes during winter in Tibet

After several days in Lhasa, it is finally time to begin the fieldwork. Although the project focuses on waterbirds in general, special attention is given to the globally threatened Black-necked Crane, one of the most iconic bird species of the Tibetan Plateau.

The Black-necked Crane holds a special place in Tibetan culture and Buddhist tradition. It is often regarded as a symbol of peace, harmony and longevity, and the species is treated with respect by humans throughout the Tibetan Plateau. Its annual presence during winter in agricultural landscapes and wetlands has inspired local folklore and religion, and in many areas the crane benefits from strong cultural protection.

Our fieldwork covers farmland, wetlands and river valleys where cranes spend the winter months. Early mornings often begin at known roost sites, where we count birds as they leave their overnight quarters. These counts are valuable for information about the size and distribution of the wintering population.

During winter, Black-necked Cranes (Grus nigricollis) forage in agricultural land close to human settlements in south-central Tibet.

Adult Black-necked Crane (Grus nigricollis)

During the day, we survey large areas of cultivated land. Black-necked Cranes depend on agricultural habitats during winter, and one of our objectives is to better understand how they use the landscape. Every encounter is carefully recorded, with birds logged as individuals, pairs or family groups. Particular attention is given to family parties, as they provide information about breeding success in the previous season.

Black-necked Cranes (Grus nigricollis)

Immature Black-necked Crane (Grus nigricollis)

Just as important as counting cranes is documenting where they feed. We record the different types of farmland being used and compare preferences between autumn-sown and spring-sown fields, as well as between crops such as wheat and barley. These observations help us understand which farming practices provide the most suitable feeding conditions for wintering cranes. Changes in traditional practices have reduced the availability of barley and wheat, and efforts to get more insight in the winter ecology of the Black-necked Crane is important to stop further population decline.

Participating in this project was a unique opportunity to take part in the conservation of one of Asia’s most threatened crane species. Beyond the research itself, the project offered cultural experiences and valuable insights into the traditions, beliefs, and daily lives of local communities, highlighting the strong connections between culture, people and wildlife conservation in Tibet.

At a Black-necked Crane night-roost just after sunrise. The birds leave the roost short after.

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