According to KhabarOnline, “Roya,” the last migratory Siberian crane that had become a symbol of hope for the continued presence of this valuable species in Iran, passed away after several days of hospitalization and receiving specialized veterinary treatment. Fars reported that the Environmental Protection Organization announced that despite efforts to save the bird, they were unsuccessful, and laboratory investigations are ongoing to determine the definitive cause of death.
Official reports indicate that the first signs of illness were observed on Thursday evening, July 9, after the bird’s caretaker noted a lack of appetite and balance issues. Immediately following the report of these symptoms, “Roya” underwent a veterinary examination, and initial treatments commenced. However, due to the persistence of symptoms and the need for more specialized investigations, this Siberian crane was referred to a specialized veterinary center for advanced diagnostic and treatment procedures.
After “Roya” was transferred to the specialized veterinary center, the results of the investigations indicated the presence of an active infectious process in the bird’s body. Additionally, radiological images revealed that “Roya’s” respiratory system, particularly the lungs and air sacs, was severely affected by the disease. Rouhollah Esmaeili, the Deputy for Natural Environment and Biodiversity at the Mazandaran Department of Environmental Protection, stated that based on laboratory findings and veterinarians’ opinions, the treatment plan was revised according to the results of microbial cultures and antibiotic sensitivity tests. Targeted medical treatment, alongside supportive care, was implemented for the bird.
The general condition, respiratory quality, nutrition, alertness level, and response to treatment were continuously monitored by veterinarians and caregivers, and all specialized resources were mobilized for the treatment and care of this Siberian crane. He added that despite all diagnostic, therapeutic, and specialized care efforts, the bird passed away. To accurately determine the cause of death, a specialized autopsy and necessary sampling were conducted in accordance with veterinary regulations, and additional laboratory investigations are underway.
The tragic fate of a conservation mission in Bahman 1401 (February 2023) saw the arrival of the Belgian crane “Roya” to the Fereydunkenar wetlands, which once again ignited hope for the revival of the migratory path of the Siberian crane in Iran. She was a mate for “Omid,” the last migratory Siberian crane in Iran, in hopes of providing a pathway for this valuable species to return to its historical migratory route after years of solitude.
Although this program did not succeed, the cranes Omid and Roya left the Fereydunkenar International Wetland together on March 5 after a 34-day stay, but the Belgian crane did not continue the journey and landed in an area in Abbasabad, Tonekabon, in Mazandaran. Now, with the passing of “Roya,” one of the most significant efforts in recent years to revive the population of Siberian cranes along Iran’s migratory route has also come to an end.
