Sarus Crane

Species: Sarus Crane
Habitat: Wetlands of India, SE Asia, Australia
Status: Vulnerable
DAK Locale: Maharajah Jungle Trek

This species of crane is nonmigratory although it will move short distances during the rainy and dry seasons. It is the tallest flying bird with some specimens measuring in at nearly 6 feet tall. Its generally grayish color is in stark contrast to the bright red feathers found on its head.

In India, this bird is the symbol of marriage. It is believed in myth that these birds mate for life and will actually starve themselves to death if they lose their partner. The latter is not really true, however. And frankly neither is the former in all circumstances (although many do mate for life). Nevertheless, the bird is revered and in the Hindu culture, eating the meat of the crane is taboo. In India they are sacred and left alone, and often the birds feel not threatened by man.

The sarus is known for its loud trumpeting calls which are often used in courtship. The male dances in order to attract a mate. Dancing is also used when the bird feels the young or nest are endangered as a way to distract would be predators.

The bird is officially listed as Vulnerable. However, it is locally extinct in Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines. The biggest threat to the bird is the conversion of their wetlands to farms. Many farmers believe the species is damaging to rice fields. The species is in greater danger in Southeast Asia. The populations in India and Australia, while down from historical records, are stable.

By Safari Mike

Bongo

Species: Bongo
Habitat: Dense Forest of Africa
Status: Near Threatened
DAK Locale: Kilimanjaro Safari

Many of us know the safari driver line about the "ghost of the forest," that is the bongo. It is called that due to its ability to blend into the broken light and foliage of the jungle. The chestnut brown fur and white stripes are deceptively good camouflage. Adding to its mystery is the fact that is mostly nocturnal (a trait generally not true for its savanna brethren). Also, it is one of the largest of Africa's antelopes and certainly one of its most beautiful.

The bongo lives in the densest jungles of Africa. There, it eats mostly leaves, grasses and roots as well the occasional fruit. It has a long prehensile tongue that it uses to pull up grass and pull off leaves. It will also eat the burnt bark of trees scorched by lightning, a behavior it shares with okapi. It is believed these animals do this to obtain otherwise hard to come by minerals.

This antelope species is currently listed as Near Threatened and estimates put the total population at around 28,000. Habitat destruction being the biggest culprit in the animal's decline, although its beautiful coat makes it a favorite poacher's target. It is part of the SSP program throughout North American zoos.

By Safari Mike