Overview
The Cranes Working Group of the Central Asian Conservation Network (CACN) coordinates conservation action for crane species across the Central Asian Flyway (CAF). The flyway supports globally threatened and Near Threatened crane species that depend on a chain of wetlands, grasslands, and agricultural landscapes across several range countries.
Why Cranes Matter
Cranes are iconic migratory birds and powerful indicators of wetland health. Due to their large body size, long lifespans, and strong site fidelity, cranes are especially vulnerable to habitat loss, disturbance, and illegal killing. Their conservation delivers wide ecological and cultural benefits for wetlands and local communities.
Key Challenges in the CAF
- Loss and degradation of wetlands and grasslands
- Disturbance at breeding, staging, and wintering sites
- Illegal killing, capture, and trade, including emerging online trade
- Limited coordinated monitoring and population data
- Fragmented conservation efforts across range states
Working Group Priorities
- Improve knowledge of crane distribution, population trends, and threats
- Address illegal killing and trade, including digital monitoring of online platforms
- Map priority sites and conservation gaps across the flyway
- Support awareness, education, and community engagement (CEPA)
- Strengthen transboundary collaboration and policy alignment
Looking Ahead
The Cranes Working Group aims to secure safe migratory pathways and long-term survival of crane populations through coordinated, flyway-scale action.
Contact
For information about this working group, please contact the Working Group Coordinator Mr Ayub Alavi (Organisation Rewild, Afghanistan) at aalavi(at)orewild.org.