A meeting on migratory cranes was convened with representatives of the Cranes Association, District Bannu, under the chairmanship of Junaid Khan, Secretary, Climate Change, Forestry, Environment & Wildlife Department, Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The meeting focused on the ecological importance of migratory cranes, conservation challenges, and the enforcement of wildlife protection laws in the southern districts of the province.
Dr. Mohsin Farooq, Chief Conservator Wildlife, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, briefed the participants on the seasonal migration of cranes to Pakistan and highlighted the role and responsibilities of bird dealers and crane associations operating in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He informed the meeting that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa lies along the globally significant Indus Flyway, making it an important resting and foraging corridor for migratory bird species, particularly cranes. He explained that cranes are not resident birds of the province; rather, they arrive as winter visitors or passage migrants, utilizing the province’s open plains, wetlands, riverine belts, and cultivated landscapes as critical stopover habitats during their arduous seasonal journeys. Among the species recorded, the Common Crane (Grus grus) is the most frequently observed. Appearing in large flocks from October to March, it is commonly seen in agricultural fields, open plains, wetland margins, and riverine tracts. Another notable visitor is the Demoiselle Crane (Anthropoids Virgo), admired for its elegant stature and extraordinary migratory endurance, including its flight across high mountain ranges. This species typically visits the province from September to March, frequenting dry plains, farmlands, and areas near rivers. On rare and largely historical occasions, sightings of the Sarus Crane (Antigone Antigone), the tallest flying bird in the world, have also been reported in or near the region. Dr. Mohsin Farooq emphasized that the presence of migratory cranes is a living testament to the ecological value of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s landscapes. Cranes are widely regarded as indicators of healthy ecosystems, as their survival depends on undisturbed habitats, adequate food resources, and safe migratory routes. However, these majestic birds face mounting threats from habitat degradation, illegal hunting, disturbance along migration corridors, and the excessive use of agrochemicals. He stressed that the protection of wetlands, riverine belts, and traditional roosting sites is essential to sustain crane populations and to uphold the province’s role within the broader Indus Flyway system.
The meeting was further informed about the issue of illegal hunting and smuggling of cranes in the southern districts. In response to these threats, the Wildlife Department, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has imposed a complete ban on the hunting of all crane species across the province. It was noted that many offenders originate from other provinces and employ harmful practices such as indiscriminate firing, large-scale netting, and the use of recorded crane calls played through MP3 devices to lure birds. Consequently, the Department has strictly prohibited firing, netting, and the use of electronic calling devices.
The Chief Conservator also apprised the Secretary that the Department has introduced regulatory measures for the keeping of cranes in private custody, allowing it only through official permits issued against a nominal fee. Hunting, smuggling, sale, or commercial trade of cranes remains strictly prohibited under wildlife laws.
Addressing the participants, Mr. Junaid Khan reaffirmed the Government’s unwavering commitment to wildlife conservation and the rule of law. He stated that no individual or association would be allowed to violate the rules and regulations governing the hunting, possession, or keeping of birds in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He emphasized that migratory cranes are a shared natural heritage and their protection is both a legal obligation and a moral responsibility.
Referring to the existing arrangement permitting the keeping of eight pairs of birds, Mr. Junaid Khan acknowledged the Cranes Association’s request to increase the number to fifteen pairs. He directed the Association’s representatives to hold a follow-up meeting with the Wildlife Department in the coming week to review the request in accordance with ecological considerations and legal frameworks, ensuring that any decision taken aligns with conservation priorities.
Concluding the meeting, Mr. Junaid Khan underscored that sustainable coexistence between communities and wildlife is the cornerstone of effective conservation, and that the protection of migratory cranes is integral to preserving the ecological balance, international biodiversity commitments, and the natural legacy of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.