HomeScienceMeet Black-Necked Crane: The rare and majestic bird of the Himalayas

Meet Black-Necked Crane: The rare and majestic bird of the Himalayas

The black-necked crane, a rare and graceful bird of the Himalaya, is admired for its striking beauty, cultural significance and fragile existence in high-altitude wetlands, where it continues to inspire conservation.

August 21, 2025 / 17:28 IST
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Meet the Black-Necked Crane: An endangered and elegant bird, the Black-Necked Crane inhabits the Himalayas, cherished for its looks and cultural values. (Image: Canva)
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Meet the Black-Necked Crane: An endangered and elegant bird, the black-necked crane inhabits the Himalayas, cherished for its looks and cultural values. (Image: Canva)

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Distinctive Looks: The bird is tall, has a black neck and red crown, standing tall amidst snowy Himalayan vistas. (Image: Canva)

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Culturally Sacred: In Buddhist communities, the Black-Necked Crane is considered sacred as a messenger of peace, longevity and prosperity. (Image: Canva)

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Uncommon Habitat: It inhabits high-altitude marshes of Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh and Bhutan and is one of the most endangered cranes. (Image: Canva)

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Breeding Season: They breed during summer, frequently nesting in marshes ringed by mountains. Both male and female take care of the chicks. (Image: Canva)

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Migration Journey: In winter, the cranes migrate to lower areas such as Bhutan and Arunachal Pradesh, flying in graceful formations. (Image: Canva)

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Feeding Habits: The bird's diet consists of roots, tubers, insects and small mammals, which contributes towards the fine balance of the Himalayan ecosystem. (Image: Canva)

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Survival Threats: Habitat destruction, climate change and man-made intervention have listed the Black-Necked Crane as an endangered species. (Image: Canva)

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Conservation Activity: Governments and conservationists are safeguarding breeding grounds and educating the public to preserve this symbol of hope. (Image: Canva)

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A Symbol of Hope: The Black-Necked Crane remains to inspire human beings as a majestic symbol of harmony between culture and nature. (Image: Canva)