Cranes are large, tall and mainly terrestrial birds (generally from 85 to 175 cm). With a long neck and long legs, they have a graceful stature, with a mainly grey or white plumage, some having chestnut tones. They are somewhat similar in appearance to herons but differ by the Crane's larger size and shorter bill. Some Crane species, for example the Grey Crowned Crane (Balearica regulorum) which is picured on this page have an ornamental feather crest in the area where the head meets the back of the neck. Crane family are found on all continents of the earth except in the Antarctic and South America. Cranes were once far more common than today but their population numbers are reducing throughout the world, much of the reason being because the areas of peaceful and calm habitat which they need to live in are declining. The greatest diversity of Crane species are found in Asia, with relatively large numbers also being found in Africa.
Cranes have a spectacularly complex and loud courtship display. The males and the females stretch their necks and open their wings, both bobbing and jumping up and down whilst calling to each other. Cranes have a very long windpipe and emit acute trumpeting sounds which can be heard two kilometers away. Objects like twigs are sometimes grabbed by the beak and thrown high into the air.
Crane
Crane
Crane
Crane
Crane
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