A review of the success of major crane conservation techniques

Abstract

SummaryThe purpose of this paper is to review the success of different crane conservation techniques in order to determine which combinations of techniques are most promising. Six major crane conservation techniques were defined and a literature review was conducted. A summary of each technique was prepared, including several examples of the technique's use and possible negative effects. All of the evaluated techniques were successful in at least some cases. Habitat and legal protection are general measures that are required for every species regardless of other conservation techniques being used. Artificial feeding is successful in rapidly bolstering some crane populations but may not be desirable as a long-term conservation technique. Powerline modification or removal should be used to preserve all localized or endangered crane populations. The release of captive-reared cranes shows promise as a conservation technique but should only be used as a last resort. Likewise, manipulation of wild crane eggs should only be used when absolutely necessary to establish or bolster captive flocks.