Of the 453 cranes, 302 cranes were recorded in Phobjikha valley in the winter of 2007-2008. The other winter habitats in Bhutan include Bumdeling in Trashiyangtse, Khotokha and Bumthang.

Last year, the cranes started arriving at Phobjikha in the first week of November. The cranes usually spend over four months in major winter habitats in Bhutan and leave for their summer habitats in Tibet in mid-March.

The Royal Society for Protection of Nature and Phobjikha Environment Management Committee observe November 12^th as Annual Black-necked Crane Festival to celebrate arrival of the cranes and at the same time generate mass awareness on importance of crane conservation.