Animal Diversity Web

Animal Diversity Web

The Grus japonensis, also known as the red-crowned crane, is a highly endangered species and the second rarest crane in the world. These majestic birds can be found in the Amur River basin in eastern Russia, as well as in southeastern Asia, including China and Japan.

As a migratory species, red-crowned cranes spend their springs and summers in the wetlands of temperate East Asia, and then migrate to the salt and freshwater marshes of China, Japan, and the Korean Peninsula during winter. There is also a non-migratory population that remains in Hokkaido, Japan, which is the country’s northernmost island.

The red-crowned crane is included in the “Threatened Birds of Asia: The BirdLife International Red Data Book” and is listed as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Their population is declining due to habitat loss, hunting, and disturbance. Efforts are being made to conserve their habitats and prevent further population declines, including the establishment of protected areas and the promotion of eco-tourism.

Habitat

Red-crowned cranes have a unique habitat preference for deep-water marshes, which is uncommon among cranes as their close relatives typically prefer shallow water habitats. They have a specific nesting requirement and will only build nests in areas with standing dead vegetation. In addition to their preferred wetland habitats, red-crowned cranes have also been observed in agricultural areas. (Collar, et al., 1988; Meine and Archibald, 2004; Plemons, 2001; Smirenski, 2000)

Physical Description

Rewritten: Red-crowned cranes are characterized by their white body with black-tipped wings and necks. They get their name from the red circle on their heads, which is actually exposed skin. Males and females have a similar appearance. These cranes have long and pointed beaks, can weigh up to 20 pounds, and can reach a height of 5 feet with a wingspan of up to 8 feet. They are among the largest birds in the world. Their basal metabolic rate is 31.4 cm^3 of oxygen per hour. These details are from sources such as “IUCN Red List of Threatened Species” (2003), Meine and Archibald (2004), Plemons (2001), and Smirenski (2000).

• Other Physical Features
• endothermic
• homoiothermic
• bilateral symmetry

• Sexual Dimorphism
• sexes alike

• Average mass 9500 g 334.80 oz
• Average mass 8500 g 299.56 oz AnAge
• Average length 1.6 m 5.25 ft
• Average wingspan 2.4 m 7.87 ft
• Average basal metabolic rate 31.4 cm3.O2/g/hr

Reproduction

Red-crowned cranes are known for their unique courtship behavior, which involves an elaborate dance. The dance consists of a series of bows, head bobs, and leaps, as well as other gestures. The male and female cranes also perform a unison call before starting the other dance elements. This dance is used for courtship and communication between members of the same species.

Red-crowned cranes are monogamous, and they remain together throughout the year. They often stay together for many years or until one of them dies. This long-term bond between the male and female cranes is reinforced through their dance, which helps to strengthen their pair bond.

In addition to their courtship behavior, red-crowned cranes also have a unique social structure. They often gather in small flocks during the non-breeding season, and larger flocks can be seen during migration. During the breeding season, pairs of cranes will establish territories and defend them from other pairs.

Despite their elaborate courtship behavior and strong pair bonds, red-crowned cranes are facing numerous threats to their survival. Habitat loss, hunting, and disturbance of nesting sites are among the main threats to their populations. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these magnificent birds and ensure their long-term survival.

During the spring and summer, Grus japonensis breeds, with the female typically laying two eggs. While the eggs hatch simultaneously, only one chick generally survives. After 70 days, the chicks fledge and reach sexual maturity within two to three years. (Blair-Newton, Date Unknown; Collar, et al., 1988; “IUCN Red List of Threatened Species”, 2003; Plemons, 2001)

• Key Reproductive Features
• iteroparous
• seasonal breeding
• gonochoric/gonochoristic/dioecious (sexes separate)
• sexual
• fertilization
• oviparous

• Breeding season spring and summer months
• Average eggs per season 2
• Average eggs per season 2 AnAge
• Average time to hatching 31 days AnAge
• Average fledging age 70 days
• Average age at sexual or reproductive maturity (female) 2-3 years
• Average age at sexual or reproductive maturity (female)
  Sex: female 1095 days AnAge
• Average age at sexual or reproductive maturity (male) 2-3 years
• Average age at sexual or reproductive maturity (male)
  Sex: male 1095 days AnAge

The red-crowned crane, also known as Grus japonensis, is a beautiful and fascinating bird that can be found in parts of Asia. One interesting fact about these cranes is that both the male and female are involved in building the nest and incubating the eggs. This level of cooperation between the sexes is not always seen in the bird kingdom.

Once the eggs hatch, the female takes on the primary role of feeding the chicks while the male defends them from predators. This shows a clear division of labor that helps ensure the survival of the young. It’s impressive to see how these cranes work together to raise their offspring.

The breeding season for Grus japonensis typically takes place in the spring and summer months. The female lays two eggs, but usually only one chick will survive. The young cranes fledge in about 70 days and will reach sexual maturity in two to three years.

These beautiful birds are known for their dancing displays, which they use for courtship and communication with other members of their species. The dance includes bows, head bobbing, leaps, and other gestures, and there is even a special “unison call” given by both the male and female before they start the dance.

Unfortunately, the red-crowned crane is considered a threatened species due to habitat loss, hunting, and other factors. Efforts are underway to protect these birds and their habitats, and it is important that we continue to work towards their conservation.

• Parental Investment
• no parental involvement
• precocial
• pre-hatching/birth
  • protecting
    • male
    • female
    • provisioning
      • male
      • female
      • male
      • female
      • provisioning
        • male
        • female
        • male
        • female

        Lifespan/Longevity

        In their natural habitat, red-crowned cranes typically have a lifespan of around 30 years, but those in captivity can live for over 60 years. (Sources: “Threatened Birds of Asia: The BirdLife International Red Data Book”, 2001; “Let’s Learn About Cranes”, 2004; Song, 2000)

        • Average lifespan
          Status: wild 30 years
        • Range lifespan
          Status: captivity 65 (high) years
        • Average lifespan
          Status: wild 25 years
        • Average lifespan
          Status: captivity 50 years
        • Average lifespan
          Status: captivity 25.2 years Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research

        Behavior

        Red-crowned cranes are fascinating birds that have unique features and behaviors. One of their distinguishing characteristics is that they live in flocks and are communal birds. They can often be seen preening, which involves rubbing special oil secreted from a gland at the top of their tail onto their feathers. This oil helps to keep their feathers conditioned and in good condition.

        Another unique feature of the red-crowned crane is its bill, which is very sharp and pointed. These cranes use their bills like spears, which is helpful in gathering food. Additionally, the shape of the bill makes it easier for them to feed in deeper water than other crane species.

        The red-crowned crane has a special feeding technique called “walk and peck,” which enables them to feed in deeper water than other cranes. This technique involves walking in shallow water and pecking at their prey, which can be found in the deeper water.

        These cranes are known for their courtship dance, which involves a series of bows, head bobbing, and various other gestures. During this dance, they communicate with other members of their species and court potential mates. Once they mate, the male and female stay together throughout the year, often for many years or until one of them dies.

        Red-crowned cranes usually live for 30 years in the wild, but they can live for over sixty years in captivity. They are found in the wetlands of temperate East Asia during the spring and summer and in the salt and freshwater marshes of China, Japan, and the Korean Peninsula during the winter. Their nesting and feeding preferences are rare for crane species; they prefer to nest and feed in marshes with deep water and standing dead vegetation.

        Home Range

        Currently, we lack data regarding the home range of this particular species.

        Communication and Perception

        Red-crowned cranes use a dance during courtship that involves bowing, head bobbing, and leaping, which helps them communicate with each other and strengthens the bond between male and female pairs. Additionally, they have a contact call that allows other birds to locate them. In times of distress, chicks have a louder and more strident contact call to attract attention. They also have the ability to communicate aggression by inflating the red cap on their heads. However, we do not have information about their home range at this time. (Blair-Newton, Date Unknown; “Let’s Learn About Cranes”, 2004; “International Crane Foundation, Crane Species, Red Crowned Crane”, 2001)

        

        Food Habits

        Red-crowned cranes have a diverse diet, consisting of a variety of insects, aquatic invertebrates, fish, amphibians, rodents, reeds, grasses, heath berries, corn, and other plants in their natural habitat. During the winter months, they also feed on waste and grain in agricultural fields. This species is known for their “walk and peck” feeding technique, which allows them to feed in deeper water than other cranes. Their pointed and sharp bills make it easier for them to gather food, which they spear like a weapon.

        In zoos, red-crowned cranes are fed crane pellets, silverside fish, and occasionally insects. Crane pellets are specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of these birds. The silverside fish are given in large quantities, up to 500 grams per day, to meet the high protein requirements of these large birds. The occasional insects supplement their diet with additional protein and nutrients.

        While it is important for red-crowned cranes in captivity to receive a balanced diet, it is equally important to provide them with enrichment activities that mimic their natural foraging behaviors. This helps to keep them mentally and physically stimulated, which promotes overall health and well-being. These activities can include hiding food in their enclosure, providing a variety of textures and materials for them to explore, and encouraging natural feeding behaviors. By providing a balanced diet and engaging enrichment activities, zoos can help to ensure the long-term health and survival of this magnificent species.

        Red-crowned cranes, known for their striking red crowns and white bodies with black markings, have some interesting adaptations that help them feed in their natural habitats. One such adaptation is their sharp, pointed bill, which they use like a spear to catch their prey. The shape of their bill makes it easier for them to gather food, as they can quickly stab and catch their prey.

        Additionally, these cranes are able to feed in deeper water than other crane species due to their unique “walk and peck” technique. As they walk through the water, they will occasionally peck at the bottom to catch prey hidden in the sediment. This allows them to feed in deeper water than other cranes that are limited to shallower areas.

        While these adaptations are certainly interesting, it’s important to note that the red-crowned crane is considered an endangered species. Habitat loss, hunting, and other human activities have drastically reduced their populations in the wild. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these beautiful birds and ensure that they continue to thrive in their natural habitats.

        • Primary Diet
        • omnivore
        • Animal Foods
        • mammals
        • amphibians
        • fish
        • insects
        • terrestrial non-insect arthropods
        • terrestrial worms
        • aquatic or marine worms
        • Plant Foods
        • leaves
        • seeds, grains, and nuts
        • fruit

        Predation

        Red-crowned cranes are magnificent birds that are well adapted to defend themselves against predators. They are one of the largest birds in their ecosystem and can outrun or fly away from most predators. They are also equipped with sharp beaks that they can use to defend themselves.

        These cranes inhabit wetlands and other open areas, which are home to various predators such as foxes, raccoons, and birds of prey. To avoid these threats, red-crowned cranes have developed several strategies to keep themselves safe. Their large size and strong legs allow them to run and fly quickly, giving them the advantage to escape from potential predators.

        Red-crowned cranes also have sharp and pointed bills that they can use to defend themselves against predators. Their bills are strong enough to inflict serious injuries to predators or attackers. They use their bills like spears to protect themselves and their young ones.

        Overall, red-crowned cranes are well-equipped to defend themselves against predators. Their size, speed, and sharp beaks are some of the traits that allow them to thrive in their ecosystem. Despite these adaptations, they still face threats such as habitat loss and poaching, which have led to their classification as an endangered species. It is crucial that conservation efforts are made to protect these magnificent birds and ensure their survival in the wild.

        Ecosystem Roles

        Economic Importance for Humans: Positive

        Red-crowned cranes are important animals in Asia due to their association with fortune and romance. They can also play a role in regulating pest populations as they consume a variety of insects and rodents. Moreover, they are a significant topic of study and learning. (“Threatened Birds of Asia: The BirdLife International Red Data Book”, 2001; “International Crane Foundation, Crane Species, Red Crowned Crane”, 2001; Plemons, 2001; Smirenski, 2000)

        • Positive Impacts
        • research and education
        • controls pest population

        Economic Importance for Humans: Negative

        Due to high human population densities in the Asian countries where these animals live, there is an ongoing conflict between them and humans. The continuous demand for industrialization and expansion of agriculture has led to the reduction of their natural habitat, which is home to a significant number of these cranes.

        Conservation Status

        The breeding wetlands in Hokkaido, which provide habitat to more than a quarter of the red-crowned crane population, are being destroyed due to economic development such as agricultural expansion, river canalization, deforestation, and road construction. Similarly, agricultural development on breeding and wintering grounds is also a critical threat to the cranes in China and other places where they reside. Nonetheless, international agreements and cooperative research have been established to protect Grus japonensis and its habitat, while protected areas have been created to safeguard their habitat and reduce disturbance. Additionally, winter feeding stations have been set up to help the cranes survive the winter months, and utility lines have been marked to prevent collisions. Surveying is also carried out frequently in the breeding and wintering grounds. Captive breeding of red-crowned cranes has been practiced since 1861, with a few limited reintroduction efforts to help bring captive birds back to the wild. Educational programs are also established to support these cranes. Efforts are underway to develop an umbrella international agreement for all cranes in East Asia and to formulate a complete recovery plan for Grus japonensis. Red-crowned cranes are now protected by law in all countries where they occur naturally, and they are classified as ‘Endangered’ by the IUCN and listed under Appendix I by CITES. (“Threatened Birds of Asia: The BirdLife International Red Data Book”, 2001; Collar, et al., 1988; “International Crane Foundation, Crane Species, Red Crowned Crane”, 2001; “IUCN Red List of Threatened Species”, 2003; Meine and Archibald, 2004)

        Other Comments

        Red-crowned cranes hold significant cultural value in Asia, symbolizing fidelity in marriage, good luck, long life, and love, and are considered sacred. They have been celebrated through poetry, mythology, and art in the region for many years. Losing these cranes would result in the loss of a symbol of peace and good fortune for the people of Asia.

        Contributors

        The Animal Diversity Web is edited by Alaine Camfield.

        Author Victoria DeCarlo and editor Phil Myers belong to the School of Music and Museum of Zoology, respectively, at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor.

        Glossary

        The term “Old World” refers to the continents of Europe, Asia, and Africa, which are believed to be the cradle of civilization. These regions are home to a vast array of wildlife, including many species that are unique to the area.

        Europe, for example, is home to a wide range of mammals, including wolves, brown bears, and deer. It is also home to a diverse range of bird species, such as the Eurasian eagle-owl and the common cuckoo. In Asia, the wildlife is even more diverse, with species such as the giant panda, the Siberian tiger, and the snow leopard.

        Northern Africa is also home to a unique array of wildlife, including species such as the Nile crocodile, the desert fox, and the Barbary macaque. However, many of these species are under threat due to habitat loss, poaching, and other human activities.

        Despite the challenges facing wildlife in the Old World, there are many conservation efforts underway to protect these species and their habitats. These include the establishment of national parks and protected areas, as well as efforts to reduce poaching and illegal wildlife trade.

        As humans continue to expand their presence across the Old World, it is more important than ever to ensure the protection of the unique and diverse wildlife found in this region. Through conservation efforts and sustainable practices, we can help to ensure that these species continue to thrive for generations to come.

        Sound is one of the most important forms of communication in the animal kingdom. From birds chirping to dolphins clicking, many animals use sound to communicate with each other. Sound can travel long distances, making it an effective way for animals to communicate even in noisy environments.

        One example of an animal that uses sound to communicate is the humpback whale. These whales are known for their elaborate songs, which are composed of a series of moans, cries, and whistles. The songs can last up to 20 minutes and are repeated for hours at a time. Scientists are still not sure why humpback whales sing, but it is believed that the songs may be used to attract mates or establish territory.

        Another animal that uses sound to communicate is the cricket. Male crickets produce a distinctive chirping sound by rubbing their wings together. This sound is used to attract female crickets for mating. Different species of crickets have different chirping patterns, allowing them to identify members of their own species.

        Sound is also important for many species of birds. Songbirds, for example, use complex melodies to establish territory and attract mates. The songs are often specific to individual species, allowing them to communicate with members of their own kind.

        In addition to communication, animals also use sound for other purposes. Bats, for example, use echolocation to navigate and locate prey. By emitting high-pitched sounds and listening for the echoes, bats can determine the location, size, and shape of objects in their environment.

        Overall, sound plays a vital role in the lives of many animals. It allows them to communicate with each other, locate prey, and navigate through their environments. By studying the ways in which animals use sound, scientists can gain a greater understanding of animal behavior and biology.

        Living in environments characterized by human agriculture.

        Bilateral symmetry is a characteristic of animals that enables them to be divided into two mirror-image halves through a single plane, meaning they have body symmetry. Bilateral symmetry allows for dorsal and ventral sides, as well as anterior and posterior ends to exist. It is considered a synapomorphy of the Bilateria.

        Chemical communication is a vital aspect of the animal world. Many animals use smells or other chemicals to communicate with each other. This type of communication is known as chemical communication, and it involves the use of chemicals called pheromones.

        Pheromones are chemical signals that are released by an animal into the environment. These chemicals can be detected by other animals, and they can trigger various responses, such as mating behavior, aggression, or territorial marking. Pheromones are often used by animals to signal the presence of food, to mark their territory, or to attract a mate.

        There are many different types of animals that use pheromones to communicate. Insects, for example, use pheromones to attract mates and to mark their territory. Many mammals also use pheromones to communicate, such as dogs, cats, and even humans.

        One fascinating example of chemical communication is found in ants. Ants use a variety of pheromones to communicate with each other, including trail pheromones that are used to mark a path to a food source, alarm pheromones that are used to signal danger, and sex pheromones that are used to attract mates.

        Overall, chemical communication is a critical aspect of the animal world, allowing animals to communicate important information with each other without the need for visual or auditory signals. By understanding the role of pheromones in animal behavior, researchers can gain valuable insights into the complex social behaviors of many different species.

        Endothermy is a characteristic of animals that can regulate their body temperature through metabolic processes instead of relying on the surrounding temperature. This is a unique trait of the Mammalia, although it is possible that it evolved in a synapsid ancestor that is now extinct. It is difficult to determine from the fossil record which of these possibilities is more likely. However, birds have also developed endothermy through convergent evolution.

        

        The union of egg and spermatozoan is a crucial step in the process of sexual reproduction in animals. The egg, produced by the female, contains genetic material necessary for the development of the offspring. The spermatozoan, produced by the male, carries genetic material necessary for fertilization of the egg.

        In most animals, fertilization occurs internally, where the spermatozoa are introduced directly into the female reproductive system. However, some animals, such as many species of fish, amphibians, and some reptiles, fertilize their eggs externally, outside of the female’s body.

        Once the spermatozoa reach the egg, one of them fuses with the egg, combining their genetic material to form a zygote. This zygote will then undergo a series of cellular divisions and differentiations to eventually form an embryo, which will grow and develop into a new individual.

        The process of fertilization is crucial for the continuation of a species and the diversity of its genetic material. It is also an essential step in the development of many assisted reproductive technologies used in both humans and animals.

        Overall, the union of egg and spermatozoan is a fundamental process in the cycle of life for many animals and plays a critical role in the development and continuation of their species.

        Iteroparous animals are those that reproduce in more than one group, such as litters or clutches, and across multiple seasons or periods hospitable to reproduction. These animals must survive over multiple seasons or periodic condition changes, as this is a defining characteristic of iteroparity.

        Marshes are a type of wetland area that can be found in both freshwater and saltwater environments. They are characterized by the dominance of grasses, reeds, and other herbaceous plants, which are specially adapted to survive in wet, marshy conditions.

        Marshes are one of the most productive ecosystems in the world, as they provide a wide range of ecosystem services such as water filtration, carbon storage, and habitat for various species of plants and animals. They are also important breeding grounds for many species of birds, including waterfowl, shorebirds, and wading birds.

        Marshes are usually found along the edges of lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water, where they act as a buffer zone between the land and the water. They are particularly important in coastal areas, where they help to protect against erosion and storm surge.

        There are several different types of marshes, including freshwater marshes, saltwater marshes, and brackish marshes (which are a mix of freshwater and saltwater). Each type of marsh has its own unique set of plants and animals that are adapted to the specific conditions of that ecosystem.

        Despite their many benefits, marshes are under threat from a variety of human activities, including drainage and development. It is important that we take steps to protect these valuable ecosystems, both for the benefits they provide and for the many species that depend on them for survival.

        The animal undergoes seasonal migrations or movements between its breeding and wintering locations.

        The phrase can be rephrased as “Monogamous mating behavior of having a single partner at a time.”

        Movement is an essential characteristic of many living organisms. Animals, in particular, have evolved a remarkable ability to move from one place to another in search of food, shelter, or mates. This capacity for movement, known as motility, is fundamental to the survival and success of many species.

        Motility can take many forms, from crawling and swimming to flying and running. Different animals have adapted different methods of locomotion to suit their environments and lifestyles. For example, fish use their fins to swim through water, while birds have wings to fly through the air. Some animals, such as snakes and caterpillars, move by slithering or crawling on their bellies, while others, like cheetahs and horses, run on their legs.

        The ability to move is not only important for individual animals but also for entire populations. Many animals migrate long distances to escape harsh climates or find more abundant resources. For instance, wildebeest in Africa travel hundreds of miles each year in search of water and grazing lands, while birds undertake incredible journeys across continents during their annual migrations.

        Motility is not limited to animals; some plants also have the ability to move. For example, certain species of plants can curl and twist their leaves in response to light or touch, while others can disperse their seeds by exploding or floating on the wind or water.

        In conclusion, the capacity for movement is a crucial characteristic of many living organisms. It allows animals to find food, shelter, and mates, and to escape from danger or unfavorable conditions. The diversity of ways in which animals and plants have evolved to move is a testament to the adaptability and resilience of life on Earth.

        The term “native range” refers to the geographical area where a species naturally occurs and is commonly known as its native or endemic range. This area is typically determined by the species’ evolutionary history, ecological requirements, and the presence of suitable habitats. The native range can be specific to a particular species, and it may change over time due to various environmental factors, such as climate change, habitat destruction, or human activities.

        Understanding a species’ native range is essential for studying its ecology, behavior, and evolution. It can also be useful for conservation purposes, as it helps to identify the species’ current distribution and potential habitat restoration areas. For instance, if a species is experiencing a decline in its population size or is at risk of extinction, efforts can be made to protect the species’ remaining habitats, establish new habitats, or restore degraded ones.

        In summary, the native range is the geographic area where a species has naturally evolved and developed, and it plays a crucial role in understanding the species’ ecological and evolutionary history, as well as in conservation efforts.

        An animal that has a diverse diet consisting of both plants and animals.

        The Oriental region, also known as the Indomalayan region, is a biogeographic region that covers India, Southeast Asia, and parts of southern China. This region is characterized by its rich biodiversity and unique flora and fauna, with many species found nowhere else in the world.

        India, in particular, is known for its diverse wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and monkeys, as well as a wide range of bird species. The country is also home to many endemic species, such as the Indian rhinoceros and the Bengal tiger.

        Southeast Asia, on the other hand, is home to an incredibly diverse array of species due to its tropical climate and varied habitats, including rainforests, mangroves, and coral reefs. Some of the iconic species found in this region include the orangutan, the Komodo dragon, and the Sumatran tiger.

        However, this region also faces significant challenges in terms of conservation. Rapid economic development and habitat destruction have led to the decline of many species and ecosystems in this region. Efforts are being made to protect and preserve the unique biodiversity of the Oriental region, but much work remains to be done to ensure that these species continue to thrive for generations to come.

        This can be rephrased as “A reproductive process where the female releases eggs and the development of the offspring takes place externally.”

        A reprodução está limitada a uma época específica.

        Reprodução que envolve a combinação da contribuição genética de dois indivíduos, um macho e uma fêmea.

        Estabelece associações com outros indivíduos da mesma espécie e forma grupos sociais.

        Utiliza o toque como meio de comunicação.

        Aquela região da Terra localizada entre os 23,5 graus Norte e 60 graus Norte (entre o Trópico de Câncer e o Círculo Ártico) e entre os 23,5 graus Sul e 60 graus Sul (entre o Trópico de Capricórnio e o Círculo Antártico).

        Viver no chão é uma característica comum de muitas espécies animais. Desde insetos até mamíferos, muitos animais optaram por viver no solo por diversas razões. Algumas espécies, como as formigas, usam o solo para construir seus ninhos e estabelecer colônias inteiras. Já outros animais, como os esquilos, usam o chão para armazenar alimentos e garantir sua sobrevivência no inverno.

        O solo também pode oferecer proteção contra predadores e condições climáticas extremas. Alguns animais, como as toupeiras, têm adaptações físicas para escavar e criar tocas subterrâneas, o que lhes permite se proteger de predadores e condições climáticas adversas.

        Apesar das vantagens de se viver no chão, também existem desafios. As espécies terrestres estão mais suscetíveis a parasitas e doenças transmitidas pelo solo, além de sofrerem com a destruição de habitats naturais causada pela urbanização e desmatamento.

        Como seres humanos, é importante reconhecer a importância de preservar o solo como um habitat vital para muitas espécies animais. Devemos nos esforçar para minimizar os efeitos negativos de nossas atividades no solo e promover a conservação de ecossistemas terrestres saudáveis.

        Utiliza a visão como meio de comunicação.

        Alguns animais têm seus filhotes com um grau de desenvolvimento relativamente alto. Isso significa que os recém-nascidos dessas espécies são capazes de realizar várias tarefas e funções sem precisar da ajuda dos pais imediatamente após o nascimento.

        Por exemplo, as girafas são conhecidas por terem filhotes que nascem com cerca de 2 metros de altura e são capazes de ficar em pé e correr após apenas uma hora de vida. As zebras também têm filhotes bem desenvolvidos, que podem correr ao lado de suas mães logo após o nascimento. Já os coelhos, embora nasçam cegos e sem pelos, são relativamente independentes desde o nascimento, podendo se mover e se alimentar sozinhos.

        Essa estratégia de reprodução é comum em espécies que vivem em ambientes perigosos, onde os filhotes precisam ser capazes de se mover rapidamente e evitar predadores logo após o nascimento. Além disso, os filhotes bem desenvolvidos são capazes de se alimentar e se proteger enquanto seus pais procuram alimento ou realizam outras tarefas importantes.

        Apesar de terem filhotes mais independentes, essas espécies ainda enfrentam muitos desafios e ameaças em seus ambientes naturais. Como seres humanos, é importante reconhecer a importância de preservar esses ecossistemas e garantir a sobrevivência dessas espécies e seus filhotes bem desenvolvidos.

        References

        BirdLife International. 2001. Aves ameaçadas da Ásia: Livro Vermelho BirdLife International. Cambridge, Reino Unido: BirdLife International.

        IUCN. 2003. “Lista Vermelha da IUCN de Espécies Ameaçadas” (Online). Acessado em 21 de abril de 2004 em http://www.redlist.org.

        International Crane Foundation. 2001. “Fundação Internacional de Grou, Espécies de Grou, Grou Coroado Vermelho” (Online). Acessado em 21 de abril de 2004 em http://www.savingcranes.org/species/red-crwn.asp.

        Blair-Newton, S. Data desconhecida. “Tópico sobre Grous de Palestra em Clube de Pássaros” (Online). Winona Post Online. Acessado em 21 de março de 2003 em Http://www.winona.com/032002/outdoor.html.

        “Birds To Watch; The ICBP World Checklist of Threatened Birds” é um livro importante que foi publicado em 1988 pelos autores Collar, Andrew, Gonzaga, Grimmett e Johnson. O livro contém uma lista de verificação mundial de aves ameaçadas compilada pela União Internacional para a Conservação da Natureza e dos Recursos Naturais (IUCN) em colaboração com a Comissão de Sobrevivência de Espécies de Aves (ICBP).

        A lista inclui informações sobre a ameaça de extinção de muitas espécies de aves em todo o mundo, e é uma ferramenta importante para ajudar na conservação de aves ameaçadas. O livro é uma referência útil para pesquisadores, biólogos e outras pessoas que trabalham na área de conservação de aves.

        A publicação deste livro é uma prova do compromisso de muitas organizações em todo o mundo para proteger as espécies de aves ameaçadas de extinção. É importante que as pessoas continuem a apoiar esses esforços por meio de doações e outras formas de ajuda para garantir que essas aves continuem a existir no futuro.

        Gotch, A. 1981. Aves – Seus Nomes Latinos Expandidos . Londres, Inglaterra: Blandford Press.

        “The Cranes: Status Survey and Conservation Action Plan” é um relatório importante sobre o status e conservação de aves da família Gruidae, popularmente conhecidas como Grous. O relatório foi produzido em 2004 pelos autores Meine e Archibald, em colaboração com a United States Geological Survey (USGS), uma agência governamental dos Estados Unidos.

        O relatório apresenta uma análise detalhada sobre a distribuição geográfica, a ecologia, o status populacional e as ameaças enfrentadas pelos Grous em todo o mundo. O relatório também inclui uma série de recomendações importantes para a conservação das espécies de Grous, com base em pesquisas e dados coletados por cientistas de todo o mundo.

        A publicação deste relatório é um importante passo na luta pela conservação dos Grous, e um lembrete da importância de proteger a biodiversidade do nosso planeta. É fundamental que as pessoas continuem a apoiar os esforços de conservação de aves e outras espécies ameaçadas de extinção, por meio de doações e outras formas de ajuda. Dessa forma, podemos garantir que essas espécies continuem a existir para as gerações futuras.

        O Grou-de-coroa-vermelha é uma das aves mais icônicas e raras do mundo, com uma população global estimada em apenas algumas centenas de indivíduos. Encontrado principalmente no nordeste da Ásia, este majestoso pássaro tem uma bela plumagem branca e preta, com uma coroa vermelha distintiva em sua cabeça.

        Infelizmente, a população de Grou-de-coroa-vermelha está enfrentando muitas ameaças, incluindo a perda de habitat, a caça furtiva e a poluição. É por isso que a conservação desta espécie é tão importante. Várias organizações em todo o mundo, como a The Wild Ones, estão trabalhando incansavelmente para proteger essas aves incríveis e garantir que elas sobrevivam por muitas gerações.

        A página “Red-Crowned Crane” da The Wild Ones fornece informações úteis sobre a ecologia e o comportamento dos Grous-de-coroa-vermelha, bem como as ameaças que enfrentam em seu habitat natural. A página também apresenta belas imagens e vídeos dessas aves majestosas, que ajudam a conscientizar sobre a importância da conservação.

        É importante lembrar que a conservação da biodiversidade é responsabilidade de todos nós. Cada pequena ação pode fazer uma grande diferença para a sobrevivência das espécies ameaçadas de extinção, como o Grou-de-coroa-vermelha. Através da educação, da conscientização e do apoio a organizações de conservação, podemos garantir que essas aves e outras espécies continuem a existir em nosso planeta.

        Song, L. (2000) reported in China Daily that red-crowned cranes were raised at the Yancheng Reserve. The article can be accessed at http://www.cein.net/cgi-bin/en/NewsDetail.asp?ID=227.

        ADW Pocket Guides are being launched by the Animal Diversity Web team with great enthusiasm!