Four black-necked cranes, including three adults and one juvenile, arrived in the Chug Valley of Arunachal Pradesh’s West Kameng district on Sunday, marking a rare and encouraging sighting in the region. Senior Veterinary Officer Dr Darge expressed excitement over the arrival of the revered winter visitors of the Himalayan region. “This is the first time four black-necked cranes have been recorded here. In previous years, we observed only a pair or, at most, three cranes,” he said. According to biologists, migratory cranes generally move in groups. It is believed that one of the adult cranes may belong to a pair that was separated during the previous winter season. Dr Darge recalled that last winter, a female crane had suffered severe injuries after being attacked by feral dogs.
The injured bird was rescued on March 6, 2025, and treated by Dr Tsering at the veterinary dispensary in Dirang. With the onset of summer, the crane was later relocated to Morshing, where climatic conditions were more suitable. Dr Darge said the current arrival of the cranes could provide an opportunity to reunite the separated pair. Welcoming the development, Obang Tayeng, Divisional Forest Officer of the Bomdila Forest Division, said the increase in the number of black-necked cranes was a positive ecological indicator for the region. Meanwhile, Dirang Range Forest Officer Lobsang Sunickjee said the department is closely monitoring the cranes to ensure their safety during their stay. Measures are being taken to prevent threats from feral dogs and human disturbance, while coordination is underway with gaon burahs and local residents to protect the culturally revered birds.
