Mass death of cranes: Helpers in action – scary discovery!

Mass death of cranes: Helpers in action – scary discovery!

In recent weeks, the Brandenburg region has been struggling with a frightening mass death of cranes. Volunteers, equipped with white protective suits, rubber boots, gloves and FFP3 masks, have dedicated themselves to the task of recovering the carcasses of these majestic birds. In a long line of helpers, some of whom keep a distance of 20 meters, they move through head-high grass, rivulets and hollows. Weather conditions are far from ideal, with heavy rain and wind making work difficult.

How Farmer's newspaper According to reports, the helpers distinguish between fresh carcasses and those that have already been lying for a few days. What is particularly unpleasant is the soapy feeling of the remains and the often bald necks that they encounter when they are collected. Another problem is the game tubs in which the carcasses are transported. These tubs become heavier over time and often tip over. This causes carcasses to roll down the slope, making the entire operation even more difficult. But the helpers show commitment and collect the remains again.

Proper disposal if suspected

Dealing with dead animals is not just an issue in Brandenburg. On June 13, 2025, a similar incident was reported in Hamm. A passerby informed the public order office about a noticeable smell and suspicious finds in the bushes. It turned out that two dead animals, presumably slaughterhouse waste, were stored there. Due to the strong smell of decomposition, the situation was quickly escalated. At 10:15 p.m. emergency services, including the Hamm professional fire department, firefighting groups and the police, moved out to deal with the problem.

In a proper operation, which was supported by the recommendation of a veterinarian from the veterinary office, the emergency services worked in full protective suits and with respiratory protection. The veterinarian estimated that the animals had only been lying in the bushes for a day, but that the decomposition process was already well advanced due to the summer temperatures. The cause of the illegal dumping remains unclear and the public order office has begun an investigation. The operation ended around midnight so that the carcasses could be properly removed. How WA reported, this was not the first of its kind; The last operation of this type took place in April at the Technical Town Hall in Hamm.

Insights into a worrying problem

The incidents in Brandenburg and Hamm shed a sharp light on the problems associated with the handling and disposal of dead animals. While the volunteers in Brandenburg are bravely carrying out their services, the emergency services in Hamm are confronted with a similar problem. It remains to be hoped that clarifying the causes of these incidents can help prevent such events in the future and make the work of emergency services and helpers easier.