29 May 2023

Kushiro's Captivating Crane Conservation

As Heritage Adventurer arrived at Kushiro our goal for the visit was clear from the start: get to the Kushiro-Shitsugen National Park and visit the Onnenai Marshland - Japan's largest wetland. The wetland is home to many unique plants and animals, but is most famous for the Red-crowned (or Tancho) Cranes. These large majestic birds were thought to be extinct until a remnant population of 33 was discovered. Diligent work to protect the species and the habitat has been a success and there are now more than 2,000 cranes. Cranes are very special to the Japanese symbolising longevity, fidelity and good fortune.

  A visit to the wetlands starts with the large and informative visitor centre. From there boardwalks stretch out into the marsh. These make it easy to see the multitude of flowers and survey for the animals. During our visit we had a close encounter with a number of Sika Deer including fawns, and a distant view of a crane.

  To make sure that a good view of the cranes was had, the next stop was the Rescue Centre where birds have been collected and bred since 1958. The enclosures are large enough to ensure that the birds feel at home - which is proven by the centre's breeding success. Two fluff-ball chicks and many adults seemed to pose and preen as they went about their daily lives. It is easy to see why the locals have worked so hard to save these beautiful birds.

  The tradition of extravagant send-off events continued - this time with a bit of Rock and Roll and dancing in colorful traditional robes-fantastic!

  The passage north from Kushiro is through water rich in marine mammals and seabirds. The expedition staff posted lookouts on deck and two Humpback Whales were seen close to the ship, along with many albatrosses and shearwaters.

  As always, there was plenty to chat about over drinks and dinner as we continued our journey, this time to Abashiri.

Image (c): Heritage Expeditions