Crane decline in MV: Where have the majestic birds gone?

Crane decline in MV: Where have the majestic birds gone?

The time of crane migration has begun, and the Western Pomeranian coast is preparing for a magnificent spectacle. Every year in September and October tens of thousands of cranes migrate from the north to their winter quarters in southern Europe. But this year there are some special things to report. As stern.de notes, significantly fewer cranes have arrived at their resting places so far than in previous years. Until this week, just 23,000 cranes were counted at the weekend, compared to 35,000 last year and even 61,000 in 2023.

This undercount leaves room for speculation. Particularly worth mentioning is the phenomenon that around 9,000 cranes stay at Lake Hornborga in southern Sweden. The reason for the delayed arrival could be strong storms from southwesterly directions, which hinder the birds on their journey. Despite these circumstances, the cranes are in good hands in the Western Pomeranian Baltic Sea coast, one of the largest resting areas in Europe, to strengthen themselves for their onward flight.

The questions of crane observation

Cranes cover immense distances on their journey. They eat between 200 and 300 grams of grain every day to build up their energy reserves for the onward flight to Lower Saxony, northeastern France and finally to Extremadura in western Spain. Climatic conditions and the number of breeding pairs play a decisive role in the number of migrating birds. According to ndr.de there are around 11,000 breeding pairs living in Germany, mainly in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and Brandenburg. The return to the breeding areas then takes place in February and March.

For nature lovers and bird watchers in northern Germany, there are prime crane watching locations. Impressive scenery can be found in the Müritz National Park, on the Fischland-Darß-Zingst peninsula and on the Diepholzer Moornieerung. A special highlight is the “Kranorama” observation platform on the Zingst peninsula. Here, interested visitors can learn more about the majestic birds with the help of rangers from Crane Protection Germany and receive interesting information about the cranes from the information mobiles.

Visit to the NABU Kranichwelten adventure center

The NABU Kranichwelten adventure center in Günz has set itself the goal of passing on the fascination of these animals. After an investment of 5.3 million euros, the new center offers interactive exhibitions and excursions on cranes and their habitat. It has replaced the former Nabu crane center in Groß Mohrdorf and is an excellent contact point for all crane lovers. Information options are available at the center that also address how to reduce disruptions during observations. According to nabu.de, cranes are not considered endangered and their population is continuously increasing thanks to intensive conservation efforts.

So while the cranes will remain in the region for some time, there is hope that the numbers will increase in the coming days. The crane migration is an impressive natural spectacle that attracts not only nature lovers but also many travel enthusiasts to the region every year. With a bit of luck, you can watch the spectacle of the cranes as they stop at the roost - and perhaps even take advantage of the opportunity to take part in guided tours or experience the evening cruise. Cranes have taken on a very special place for many people - not least as “birds of happiness” in Sweden.