Number and distribution of the Black-necked Cranes (Grus nigricollis) in Yanchiwan National Nature Reserve, Gansu, China

Gansu is one of the main breeding areas of the Black-necked Crane (Grus nigricollis). From April to October 2014, a survey was conducted by the line transect and the point count methods at the Yanchiwan National Nature Reserve. We also investigated the habitat and conservation status of cranes in this area. The peak Black-necked Crane count was 148, including 30 sub-adults and 38 nestlings, which remained stable, compared to the same period in previous years (140 cranes in 2012 and 149 cranes in 2013). We also found 42 crane nests in wetlands, including riverine wetlands, lakes and marshlands, which have abundant water resources and food resources (Carex atrofusca Schkuhr Riedgr), located between 3,160 and 3,260 m a.s.l. Due to the decrease of water level in wetlands, however, some cranes were seriously disturbed by predators. Hence, a detailed management plan is urgently needed to maintain wetlands for the endangered cranes, improve management level, increase public awareness and education, strengthen law enforcement, as well as to minimize disturbance to cranes by human activities.