Black-necked Crane: Ladakh Dog Sterilisation Drive and Facts
Why in the news
A conservation effort in Ladakh is controlling stray dog numbers so that the Black-necked Crane and its young face less danger from predators.
Key facts
- Drive led by: Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), helped by the Indian Army and local authorities.
- Scale: over 2,950 free-ranging dogs neutered in Ladakh from 2022 onwards.
- Goal: reduce predation on cranes and chicks.
About the bird
- Of the 15 crane species worldwide, this is the sole one living purely in alpine habitats.
- Official bird of the Union Territory of Ladakh.
- Red List category: Near Threatened.
- Found in India, China, Bhutan and Nepal.
- Known as Thrung Thrung Karmo in Dzongkha and Cha Tung-Tung in Ladakhi.
Exam angle
- Species trait: only exclusively alpine crane of 15.
- IUCN status: Near Threatened.
- State bird of: Ladakh (a Union Territory).
- Organisation in news: BNHS.