Renowned conservationist to ‘Dance with Cranes’ at CDU

One of the world’s most influential conservationists will raise awareness about the plight of the crane during a public event at Charles Darwin University.

Co-founder of the International Crane Foundation, Dr George Archibald will share stories about his mission to protect crane species on Wednesday (8 October) at Casuarina campus.

Dr Archibald is known for pioneering ways to raise cranes in captivity, including dressing up human handlers in crane costumes to avoid human imprinting on the birds.

CDU researcher Professor Stephen Garnett said he looked forward to hearing the renowned conservationist’s stories about meeting world leaders, including recent United States presidents, to promote crane survival.

Professor Garnett said a former Indian Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi, immediately nominated an Indian crane site for world heritage listing after a single meeting with Dr Archibald.

“Cranes are revered in many countries for their grace, longevity and the enduring partnerships they form with their mates,” Professor Garnett said.

“Yet the wetland habitats they need are fast disappearing.”

Dr Archibald has also taken an interest in research by two PhD candidates at CDU on Australian cranes, the Brolga and the Sarus Crane.

Dr Archibald was awarded the Order of Canada on behalf of Queen Elizabeth II in 2013.

He has also received four honorary doctorates in acknowledgement of his many accomplishments, along with other awards.

The public talk, “Dancing with Cranes”, will be held at Red building 1.3.1 on Casuarina campus at 1pm on Wednesday, 8 October.

For more information, visit riel.cdu.edu.au