KP Allows Live Crane Capture During 2026 Season Under Strict Rules
PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Wildlife Department has authorized the 2026 live crane capture season, allowing the regulated capture of certain crane species from September 1 to October 15.
Under the notification, a quota of 100 camps has been allocated across designated districts, with each camp permitted to capture a maximum of 15 cranes alive during the season.
Only Common Cranes and Demoiselle Cranes can be captured under the rules. The capture or hunting of other bird species is not permitted.
Hunting Banned in Designated Areas
The department has completely prohibited crane capture in several specified areas, including the Kurram River, designated refuges in Lakki Marwat and Zarmilan. Camps and quotas in these prohibited areas have been set at zero.
Permits will only be issued to residents of authorized districts. Cranes may be captured only through traditional methods, while the use of electronic devices, firearms or nets is prohibited and can lead to legal action.
Movement Restrictions and Registration
Crane movement will be restricted to the period between 6am and midnight. Movement from midnight to 6am will be completely prohibited.
At the end of the season, all camps must be dismantled and captured cranes must be registered. After October 15, movement of the cranes will be prohibited, with violations potentially resulting in the confiscation of birds.
Fees and Penalties
The camp permit fee has been fixed at Rs15,000, while the annual ownership fee is Rs400 per crane.
The official value of a Demoiselle Crane has been set at Rs7,000, while a Common Crane has been valued at Rs13,000.
Violations of the rules can result in cancellation of the license and the hunter being blacklisted for five years. Action may also be taken against the camp leader in cases of illegal capture.
The notification also prohibits the use of cranes for commercial purposes. Wildlife authorities have warned that violations of the regulations will not be tolerated.