For the first time, a Grey Crowned Crane, Uganda’s national bird, has hatched a chick in the Safari Kingdom area of Gazipur Safari Park. The pair of cranes reside inside a large aviary alongside other species such as kalim, pelican, and hornbill. Visitors recently spotted the parent birds strolling through the grass with their chick, which was born on September 29. The chick’s plumage is a mix of white and brown.
According to park authorities, the Grey Crowned Cranes were brought from South Africa in 2013. Although the pair had laid eggs several times before, none had successfully hatched until now. This time, one chick emerged from three eggs after an incubation period of about 28 to 30 days.
Wildlife officials at the park noted that the Grey Crowned Crane is renowned worldwide for its unique characteristics. The species can mimic the calls of other birds and exhibits remarkable intelligence as part of its survival strategy. Known for their strength and endurance, these cranes can fly long distances without rest, powered by their large wings.
Sarowar Hossain Khan, Wildlife Supervisor of Gazipur Safari Park, said this marks the first successful breeding of the species not only in the park but also in Bangladesh. In the wild, Grey Crowned Cranes live up to 20 years, while in captivity they can survive around 25 years. They reach maturity at about three years of age and form lifelong pair bonds once they choose a mate.
Following this successful hatching, park officials are optimistic about the prospect of more chicks in the future.
