Sandhill and Whooping Cranes

Abstract

As sandhill crane populations continue to grow in the United States, so too does crop damage, property damage to homeowners, and the risk of crane collisions with aircraft. Whooping crane populations also continue to grow, but with a global population of about 500 individuals (as of 2017), damage is rare and problems often require different solutions due to the species’ endangered status. The sandhill crane (Grus canadensis), is a long-lived, member of the crane family (Gruidae) and the most numerous of the 15 crane species found worldwide. Over the last 50 years, the species has grown from a rarity─ requiring extensive protection─ to an abundant, widespread species. As their populations have increased, so too have their conflicts with people. Both sandhill and whooping cranes are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) of 1918. This law strictly prohibits the capture, killing, or possession of sandhill and whooping cranes without proper permits. However, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) can issue depredation permits under this act for the shooting of sandhill cranes that causeagricultural damage or threaten human health and safety. No federal permit is required to use non-lethal management methods to reduce damage by sandhill cranes.