Kite manja claims life of tallest flying bird, the sarus crane

Surat: Deadly kite manja struck again on Tuesday, claiming the life of the sarus crane, the tallest flying bird on Tuesday in the city. The bird was injured while flying near Bonand village, close to Kharwasa, and was rescued on Monday evening in a severely weakened condition. It later died due to heavy blood loss.The bird, estimated to be around one year old, suffered a deep cut to its wing tendon caused by the sharp kite thread. "The cut was deep, and a blood vessel was damaged, leading to heavy blood loss. Such profound loss can prove fatal despite efforts to save the bird," said Darshan Desai, a volunteer with Prayas Team Environment.After its rescue, the bird received treatment, but its condition did not improve. Experts noted that, in addition to injury and blood loss, stress can also be life-threatening for birds.Residents of Bonand village noticed the crane falling and rushed to rescue it before dogs could attack. "My staff and I located it immediately and brought it to my farm. We first removed the thread and then informed the rescue volunteers," said Lakshman Chaudhary, who called the rescue helpline.Chaudhary added, "The bird was flying in a flock of five when it suddenly started falling. It was able to walk after landing, possibly aided by bushes preventing further injury, but the thread cut on the wing was severe."Experts believe that, based on its age, appearance, and the size of the flock, the sarus crane was flying with its family when it was injured.In a similar incident on Monday, an owl in Pardi, Valsad, got entangled in kite manja and was left hanging from a roof for several hours before being rescued by volunteers. The owl survived after timely intervention.