Of equal concern is the reduction of the blue crane population, endemic to South Africa and with a limited range, while other cranes have ranges extending across international boundaries. Our primary education focus is to work closely with local rural schools helping teachers to develop educational projects and activities. One of the important issues identified is the role of water in conserving cranes. This includes water quality, the need for wetlands, water-borne disease and basic education about aquatic plants and animals. Poisoning is another threat as cranes often feed on newly sown seed and harvested leftovers in agricultural fields.
Farmers are keen to assist in establishing and monitoring crane numbers on their farms.
As part of our project they are awarded 'crane custodian' boards to acknowledge their support. The first set of certificate course graduates from the Southern African Wildlife College were presented with diplomas earlier this month. Seven of the 27 course participants received distinctions and a further eight passed first class. More notable than the standard achieved was the diligence and perseverance displayed. All course participants have grown not only by way of increasing their knowledge and skills but as people.