These Cranes Were Symbols of Fidelity. Now, Science Disagrees.

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New genetic analysis reveals complex mating behaviors in black-necked cranes, challenging folklore that portrays them as lifelong, inseparable partners. For centuries, black-necked cranes have symbolized fidelity and lifelong partnerships in Chinese, Indian, and Bhutanese cultures. But new genetic research has upended that belief, revealing that these revered birds frequently change partners.  Researchers suggest that this unexpected behavior may be a way to boost genetic diversity and population resilience amid environmental shifts, such as changes to breeding grounds due to climate change. The groundbreaking study, published in the October issue of the journal Ecological Indicators, comes seven years after the research team — comprising scientists from Sichuan University, Nanjing University, and the Zoigê Wetland National Nature Reserve Administration in Sichuan province — began initial observations in 2017. Their work included paternity tests using DNA samples from crane paren ………………………………