Crane (bird)
Cranes belong to the family Guidae in the order Gruiformes and are characterized by their large size, long legs, and long necks. They can be easily recognized while flying with their necks fully extended and their stilt-like legs trailing behind them. It’s important to note that they differ from herons, which have a similar appearance but retract their necks while flying, and are not related to cranes.
As a bird photographer, I have been lucky enough to witness some of the 15 extant species of cranes found in the wild on all continents except Antarctica and South America. It’s always a thrill to spot these majestic birds with their long legs, long necks, and distinctive calls.
I’ve had the opportunity to see the Sandhill Crane in North America, with its grey plumage and red forehead patch. The Eurasian Crane, with its white cheeks and bright red crown, is another fascinating species that I was fortunate enough to capture through my lens on my travels to Europe and Asia.
One of my most memorable experiences was spotting the endangered Whooping Crane in North America, which is one of the rarest birds in the world. Their striking appearance, with white plumage and black wingtips, made for an incredible sight. It was humbling to think that I was looking at a species that has been brought back from the brink of extinction thanks to conservation efforts.
There’s something truly captivating about cranes – the way they move, the sounds they make, and their sheer size and beauty. It’s an honor to have seen these birds in their natural habitat and to have been able to capture their essence through my photography.
Throughout history, cranes have held a special place in human imagination due to their several unique similarities to humans, such as their height, vocalization, social nature, and lifelong monogamy. China, South Africa, and Uganda each have chosen a different species of crane as their national bird. In East Asia, cranes are highly regarded as symbols of long life, happiness, marital fidelity, and love, all of which are embodied by these exceptional birds. Scientists closely monitor pairs of cranes that live in dense breeding populations, and more than 80% of the evaluated pairs maintain their monogamous pair bonds, as per Hayes in 2005.
Cranes play a vital role in the ecosystems of the wetlands and grass plains where they reside. As omnivores, these birds have a diverse diet that includes plants, vertebrates like fish, rodents, frogs, and snakes, as well as invertebrates such as mollusks, insects, and crustaceans. However, these impressive creatures are vulnerable to predators such as wild dogs, wolves, bears, raccoons, foxes, coyotes, bobcats, ravens, hawks, eagles, and humans, who pose a significant threat to their existence. To protect their young, cranes stay together in groups, with some birds acting as sentries while the others sleep. For humans, the cranes’ awe-inspiring beauty, their majestic flights, and their stunning mating dances that involve unison calling, throwing back their heads, and pointing their beaks skyward all add to the magic of nature.
Contents
- 1 Description
- 2 Conservation status
- 3 Species
- 4 Cranes in culture
- 5 References
- 6 External links
- 7 Credits
- Genus Balearica
- Black Crowned Crane, Balearica pavonina
- Gray Crowned Crane, Balearica regulorum
- Genus Grus
- Common crane, Grus grus, also known as the Eurasian Crane
- Sandhill crane, Grus canadensis
- Whooping crane, Grus americana
- Sarus crane, Grus antigone
- Brolga, Grus rubicunda
- Siberian crane, Grus leucogeranus
- White-naped crane, Grus vipio
- Hooded crane, Grus monacha
- Black-necked crane, Grus nigricollis
- Red-crowned crane, Grus japonensis
- Blue crane, Anthropoides paradisea
- Demoiselle crane, Anthropoides virgo
- Wattled crane, Bugeranus carunculatus
- Locomotion—Bipedal: The same as humans.
- Height—100-200 centimeters (3.3-6.5 feet): Roughly the same as for humans. There are Greek myths of cranes and pygmies fighting at the headwaters of the Nile River.
- Lifespan—roughly 30-40 years: About the same as for pre-industrial humans, although some Asian cultures presumed cranes lived for one thousand years and took the crane as a symbol of long life.
- Pair bonding—monogamous lifetime couples: An ideal for humans who in many different cultures have taken the cranes as symbols of marital fidelity and love.
- Socialization—live as bonded pairs and families within a larger group: Similar to human communities.
- Vocalization—a rich variety of sounds used apparently with specific purposes for each: Similar to human use of language.
- Body language—at least 90 different visual displays play a vital role in maintaining the social order: Humans’ rich spoken language capabilities probably cover some of the same functions as the crane’s body language.
- Dancing—Widely practiced by all ages and often in large groups together. Special dance procedures for courtship and breeding: A very human practice, especially in some of the more primitive cultures. Many cultures have their own crane dances mimicking the cranes’ dancing, even to the extent of strapping crane feathers or crane wings on the arms.
- Britton, Dorothy and Tsuneo Hayashida. 1981. The Japanese Crane: Bird of Happiness. Tokyo & New York: Kodansha International, 1981. ISBN 0870114840
- Hayes, M. A. 2005. Divorce and extra-pair paternity as alternative mating strategies in monogamous sandhill cranes. Master’s thesis, University of South Dakota, Vermilion, S.D. Available online (PDF) from the International Crane Foundation’s Library. Retrieved July 28, 2007.
- International Crane Foundation (ICF). 2007. Siberian crane. Retrieved July 28, 2007.
- Miller, A. H., and C. G. Sibley. 1942. “A new species of crane from the Pliocene of California.” Condor 44: 126-127.
- Saving Cranes – International Crane Foundation.
Cranes in culture
The cranes’ appearance and behavior consist of various factors that make them a distinctive species, which captivates human interest and fondness. These factors comprise:
Cranes are not only remarkable birds, but they also hold a special place in human culture and history. The elegance and beauty of cranes have fascinated people throughout history, inspiring art, literature, and mythology. They are revered and celebrated in many cultures and have a rich symbolism that dates back to ancient times.
From the Aegean to South Arabia, from China to Japan and Korea, cranes have been a part of myths, legends, and cultural beliefs. In Chinese culture, cranes are considered a symbol of longevity and good fortune. They are also a symbol of immortality, wisdom, and nobility. The red-crowned crane, in particular, is revered in Japan and is depicted in art and literature as a symbol of beauty, grace, and longevity.
In Native American cultures, cranes are seen as sacred birds and are associated with creation stories and spiritual beliefs. They are believed to have the power to connect humans with the spirit world and to bring healing and balance to the earth.
The symbolism of cranes is not limited to ancient times. Even today, cranes continue to inspire and fascinate people. They represent hope, freedom, and resilience. As a result, they are often used as a symbol for conservation efforts and environmental awareness.
In addition to their symbolic significance, cranes also play an important ecological role. As apex predators, they help to maintain the balance of ecosystems and are an indicator of the health of wetland habitats. Their unique behaviors, such as pair-bonding and migration, also make them important subjects of scientific study and conservation efforts.
In conclusion, the crane is a bird that has captured the human imagination for centuries. Its beauty, elegance, and symbolism have made it an important cultural symbol in many parts of the world. As we continue to learn more about these remarkable birds, we are reminded of the importance of protecting them and the habitats they depend on.
A dance featuring cranes has been a longstanding tradition at the Tongdosa Temple courtyard in Korea since the Silla Dynasty (646 C.E.). Additionally, in northern Hokkaidō, a crane dance was performed by Ainu women, whose culture reflects more of Siberian influence than Japanese, and was captured in a photograph by Arnold Genthe in 1908. The goddesses Allat, Uzza, and Manah, who were considered intercessors with Allah and believed to be his daughters in pre-Islamic South Arabia, were referred to as the “three exalted cranes” as per records.
In various cultures such as China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam, the crane is considered a symbol of good fortune. It is associated with longevity and often depicted alongside other symbols of long life like pine, bamboo, and tortoise. Additionally, the crane is regarded as a symbol of loyalty. Vietnamese people specifically consider the crane and dragon to represent their culture. In feudal Japan, cranes were protected by the ruling class and fed by peasants. However, after the feudal system was abolished in the Meiji era of the 19th century, the protection of cranes ceased, leading to a sharp decline in their population. Subsequently, significant efforts have been made to save them from extinction. Furthermore, Japan has even named one of its satellites “tsuru” which means “crane” in reference to this revered bird.
The crane holds a special place in Japanese culture and traditions, where it is believed to live for one thousand years. According to Japanese folklore, if someone folds one thousand origami cranes, their wish for health will be granted. This belief has evolved over time to include a wish for peace as well. This shift is due to the story of Sadako Sasaki, a young girl who survived the atomic bomb blast in Hiroshima but died of leukemia at the age of 12, caused by the radiation exposure.
Sadako Sasaki believed that if she could fold one thousand paper cranes, she would be granted a wish for her health. Despite her illness, she folded over 1,000 cranes, but her health continued to deteriorate, and she eventually passed away. Inspired by her bravery and dedication, schoolchildren in Japan started folding cranes as a tribute to Sadako and her wish for peace. Over time, this tradition has spread to other parts of the world, and now children worldwide fold cranes as a symbol of peace.
These cranes are sent to Hiroshima, where they are strung together and hung in the section of the Hiroshima Peace Park that is dedicated to Sadako and the peace cranes. This tradition has become a symbol of hope and a reminder of the devastating consequences of war. It is a testament to the power of one individual’s wish and the potential for that wish to inspire others to work towards a common goal.
The story of Sadako Sasaki and the peace cranes serves as a reminder of the importance of pursuing peace and the power of individual action to make a difference. It is a message that has resonated with people around the world and continues to inspire generations to come.
In Chinese culture, the crane is considered a symbol of longevity, good luck, and prosperity. It has been a popular symbol in Chinese art, literature, and mythology for thousands of years. The crane is also believed to be a messenger of wisdom, and it has played an important role in Chinese spiritual and philosophical traditions.
According to Chinese mythology, the “heavenly cranes” or “blessed cranes” were the messengers of the gods and were said to live in the heavens. In Daoist tradition, cranes were often depicted as the mount of the legendary sages and were used to transport them between different heavenly realms. The Daoist philosopher Zhuangzi wrote about the crane in his famous book, “The Zhuangzi,” where he describes the crane as an example of the natural way of being.
In Chinese art, the crane is often depicted in paintings, sculptures, and other forms of art. Crane motifs can be seen on pottery, textiles, and other decorative items. The crane is often depicted in flight, with its wings outstretched, and is sometimes shown with other symbols of longevity, such as pine trees, bamboo, and turtles.
In addition to its symbolism in traditional Chinese culture, the crane has also been used in contemporary culture. In modern China, the crane is often used as a symbol of the country’s economic growth and prosperity. It is also a popular subject in Chinese art and literature.
Overall, the crane holds a special place in Chinese culture and continues to be an important symbol of longevity, good luck, and wisdom. Its beauty, grace, and elegance have captured the hearts and minds of people for centuries, and its symbolism continues to inspire and influence Chinese culture and art to this day.
The red-crowned crane, scientifically known as Grus japonensis, is a majestic bird that has captured the hearts of many people in both China and Japan. It is the national bird of China and one of two unofficial national birds of Japan, with the other being the green pheasant.
These magnificent birds are known for their striking appearance, with a white body, black-tipped wings, and a distinctive red patch on their head. They stand at over 5 feet tall and have a wingspan of up to 8 feet. Red-crowned cranes are known for their elaborate courtship dances, which involve intricate movements and calls that help them attract a mate.
Red-crowned cranes were once found throughout much of East Asia, but their populations have been severely depleted due to habitat loss and hunting. In the mid-20th century, there were only around 50 individuals left in the wild, leading to their classification as critically endangered.
Efforts to conserve red-crowned cranes have been successful, with the current population estimated to be around 2,800 individuals. Conservation efforts have included habitat protection, captive breeding programs, and education campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of these birds.
Red-crowned cranes have played an important role in the culture and mythology of both China and Japan. In China, they are seen as symbols of longevity, happiness, and good fortune. In Japan, they are associated with purity and fidelity, and are often depicted in artwork and literature.
Overall, the red-crowned crane is a remarkable bird that is deeply cherished by people in both China and Japan. Its striking appearance and important cultural significance have made it a beloved national symbol, and efforts to conserve these magnificent birds are ongoing.
The red-crowned crane is an iconic and beloved bird in both China and Japan, where it holds a special place in the cultural imagination. As the national bird of China and one of two unofficial national birds of Japan, the red-crowned crane is a symbol of good luck, longevity, and fidelity.
The red-crowned crane has a striking appearance, with a bright red patch of skin on its head and a distinctive black and white plumage. It is a large bird, with a wingspan of up to 2.5 meters, and can be found in wetlands and marshes across eastern Asia.
In Japan, the red-crowned crane is known as the “tancho” and is considered a symbol of good fortune and fidelity. In fact, there is a traditional Japanese wedding ceremony called “tsuru-kame” in which the bride and groom exchange cups of sake decorated with the images of a crane and a turtle, respectively, to symbolize their commitment to each other.
In China, the red-crowned crane is associated with longevity and is often depicted alongside other symbols of good fortune, such as the pine tree and the deer. Its image has been featured on Chinese currency, and it is also a popular motif in Chinese art and literature.
The red-crowned crane is not only valued for its symbolic importance but also for its conservation status. In the past, the bird was hunted for its feathers and suffered from habitat loss, leading to a significant decline in its population. However, thanks to conservation efforts, the red-crowned crane has made a remarkable recovery and is now classified as “vulnerable” rather than “endangered.”
In the Ainu language, the red-crowned crane is known as “sarurun kamui” or “marsh kamui.” The Ainu people, who are indigenous to northern Japan, have a deep cultural connection to the crane and have long viewed it as a sacred and powerful animal. Today, efforts are being made to preserve the Ainu language and culture, including its unique perspective on the natural world and the red-crowned crane.
The red-crowned crane frequently appears in myths and legends in China. In Daoism, it symbolizes longevity and immortality. Immortals are often portrayed in literature and art riding on cranes, while mortals who achieve immortality are also said to be carried away by cranes. Because of this connection, red-crowned cranes are sometimes referred to as “fairy cranes” or “xian he” in Chinese.
The red-crowned crane, also known as the Manchurian crane, holds great cultural significance in China beyond being a symbol of luck and fidelity. It is also considered a symbol of nobility and has been featured in various art forms throughout Chinese history.
In fact, depictions of the crane can be traced back to the Shang Dynasty (c. 1600-1046 BCE), where they were found in tombs as well as on Zhou Dynasty (c. 1046-256 BCE) ceremonial bronzeware. The crane’s image continued to be used in art throughout the following centuries, becoming a common theme in later Chinese art.
One common theme is the image of the recluse scholar who cultivates bamboo and keeps cranes. This symbolizes a life of leisure, wisdom, and appreciation of nature. In Chinese culture, the crane is also associated with Daoism, a philosophy that emphasizes harmony with nature and the pursuit of longevity and immortality.
In Daoist mythology, the red-crowned crane is a symbol of longevity and immortality. Immortals are often depicted riding on cranes, while mortals who attain immortality are carried off by a crane. This association is reflected in the crane’s Chinese name, “xian he,” which translates to “fairy crane.”
Overall, the red-crowned crane’s cultural significance in China spans beyond just luck and fidelity. Its image has been woven into the country’s history and art, serving as a symbol of nobility, leisure, wisdom, and the pursuit of immortality.
Similarly, the crane holds significance in various other cultures. In Greek, the crane is known as Γερανος (Geranos), which is the origin of the term Cranesbill, referring to the hardy geranium plant. The crane was regarded as a bird of prophecy and divination. In the story of Ibycus and the cranes, an assailant attacked Ibycus, a poet from the sixth century B.C.E., and left him to die. Ibycus called out to a passing flock of cranes, who followed the culprit to a theater and hovered over him until he confessed to the crime out of remorse.
According to Pliny the Elder, one of the cranes would be designated as a guard while the rest of the group slept. This crane would hold a stone in its claw to ensure that if it dozed off, it would drop the stone and awaken.
Aristotle’s “The History of Animals” provides us with fascinating insights into the natural world and animal behavior, including that of the crane. According to Aristotle’s observations, cranes migrate and can often be found in the winter near the source of the Nile. Additionally, he recounts stories of their battles with pygmies during their migration.
Interestingly, Aristotle also mentions a common myth of his time that cranes carry a touchstone inside them that can be used to test for gold when regurgitated. While he dismisses this idea as untruthful, it is not entirely implausible, as cranes do ingest small stones to help with digestion, and it is possible that some of these stones could be valuable in certain regions.
Aristotle’s writings on cranes and other animals continue to fascinate scholars and readers alike, providing valuable insight into the natural world and the way people thought about it in ancient times. Despite the myths and legends that have surrounded cranes throughout history, their beauty and grace continue to captivate us, making them a beloved symbol in many cultures.
The origin of the word “pedigree” can be traced back to the Old French phrase “pie de grue,” which translates to “foot of a crane.” This is because the diagram of a pedigree is similar in appearance to the branches coming out of a crane’s foot.
References
External links
All links were retrieved on April 6, 2022.
Credits
Sure! As a traveling photographer, I’m always on the lookout for beautiful and interesting things to capture through my lens. One of my favorite subjects to photograph are birds, and I’ve been lucky enough to see some really incredible species on my travels.
I vividly remember the time when I was in Costa Rica and spotted a resplendent quetzal perched on a branch. Its vibrant green and red feathers were absolutely stunning, and I was thrilled to be able to capture its beauty in a photograph.
Another memorable bird encounter was when I was in Australia and came across a group of kookaburras. These birds are known for their distinctive laugh-like call, and I was able to capture some amazing shots of them perched in the trees.
On a trip to South Africa, I was fortunate enough to witness a flock of flamingos taking off in unison. The sight of their wings beating in perfect unison against the backdrop of the ocean was truly breathtaking, and I was able to snap some incredible photos.
Whether it’s a majestic eagle soaring through the sky or a tiny hummingbird flitting among flowers, I’m always excited to capture the beauty and unique characteristics of each bird I come across on my travels. Being a traveling photographer has given me the opportunity to see some truly amazing sights, and I feel grateful to be able to share them with others through my photographs.
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The Wikipedia article was rewritten and finalized by writers and editors of the New World Encyclopedia to comply with the standards of the organization. The content of this article is licensed under the Creative Commons CC-by-sa 3.0 License (CC-by-sa), which allows for proper attribution and dissemination of the material. Both the New World Encyclopedia contributors and the volunteer contributors of the Wikimedia Foundation should receive credit under this license. To reference this article, a list of acceptable citing formats can be found by clicking here. Researchers can access the history of previous contributions made by Wikipedians.
The group of cranes known as typical cranes belongs to the subfamily Gruinae.
Habitat destruction caused by humans is one of the primary factors contributing to the threat of extinction for most species of cranes within their range, with many being at least threatened and some critically endangered. The whooping cranes of North America have been particularly affected, and their situation has led to some of the earliest legislation in the United States aimed at protecting endangered species.
Description
Blue Crane, Anthropoides paradisea, the national bird of South Africa
Cranes are part of the Guidae family in the Gruiformes order, along with rails, limpkins, finfoots, and trumpeters. They have a distinct appearance, characterized by their long bill, neck, and legs. While they may resemble other long-legged wading birds like herons from the Ardeidae family in the Ciconiiformes order, new molecular evidence confirms that cranes belong to the Gruiformes order. Cranes are typically larger than herons, with a heavier bill and an elevated hind toe, making them unique from other wading birds.
As a traveling photographer and bird enthusiast, I have had the privilege of seeing some of the largest and most majestic crane species in the world. One of the most impressive cranes I have ever seen is the Sarus crane, which is native to northern Pakistan, India, Nepal, Southeast Asia, and Queensland, Australia. This crane is the largest crane species in the world, averaging a height of 156 centimeters. However, male Sarus cranes in India can grow up to 200 centimeters, making them the tallest living flying bird on the planet.
Another impressive crane I have seen is the wattled crane, which is found in Africa south of the Sahara Desert. This crane is the largest crane in Africa and the second tallest species of crane, reaching a height of up to 172 centimeters or six feet. The wattled crane gets its name from the fleshy, red ornamentation on its head, which is known as a wattle.
Finally, I was lucky enough to spot the whooping crane during one of my trips to North America. This crane is the tallest North American crane and the only crane species found solely in North America. The whooping crane’s name comes from its unique whooping call, and it stands nearly 150 centimeters or 5 feet tall, with a wingspan of 230 centimeters or 7.5 feet. It’s a truly remarkable sight to see this elegant bird soaring through the sky.
It’s unfortunate that many crane species around the world are threatened or endangered due to habitat loss and human activities. However, I feel grateful to have been able to witness the beauty and grandeur of these magnificent birds in their natural habitats.
Cranes inhabit wetlands and grass plains and have an adaptable diet that varies based on seasonal and nutritional needs. They are opportunistic feeders, consuming a variety of foods including small rodents, fish, amphibians, insects, grains, berries, and plants. The cranberry plant, in particular, got its name from the resemblance of its flowers to the head and neck of the crane.
Sandhill cranes, Grus canadensis, in Nebraska
Cranes are social birds that often form large flocks. However, they also have a strong pair-bonding process. When the young reach sexual maturity in the second or third year, they begin to search for a mate. The process of forming a pair bond can take several days and involves an elaborate dance and call display. During this display, the male and female crane dance together, leaping into the air with outstretched wings and tossing sticks or grass. They also flap their wings, pump their heads, and bow to each other. The display is accompanied by vocalizations that can reach a crescendo during unison calling, which is an extended series of complex and coordinated calls. Once the pair bond is formed, most cranes remain together for life, continuing to dance and call together, especially during the breeding season. This pair-bonding process is an important part of the social life of cranes, and it contributes to their fascinating behavior and unique culture.
Cranes are known for their legendary pair-bonding fidelity, but some people have doubted the truth of this belief based on one scientific study published by Hayes in 2005. However, this study followed 69 pairs of sandhill cranes in a dense breeding population for 13 years and found that only 12 instances of divorce occurred, which is a strong record compared to human marriage success rates in many countries. While this study did not evaluate other widely-held beliefs about crane pair-bonding, such as sharing the tasks of protecting and feeding the young, flanking the young during migration flights, dancing and singing together, or staying with a sick or wounded mate even during migration, these behaviors are often observed in cranes. In fact, many cultures consider the crane to be a symbol of fidelity and long-lasting love. Therefore, while the scientific study provides a useful data point, it should not discount the rich cultural beliefs and observations about crane pair-bonding.
Cranes exhibit different migration patterns across species and populations. While some cranes undertake long-distance migrations, others remain non-migratory. For instance, the red-crowned crane, also known as the Japanese crane, is an endangered species that breeds in Siberia during spring and summer, but migrates in groups during the fall to Korea, Japan, China, Taiwan, and other countries in East Asia to spend the winter. There is one flock of the red-crowned crane that remains in Hokkaidō, Japan throughout the year. The use of the scientific name “Grus japonensis” and the common name “Japanese crane” has generated controversy, particularly from countries like China, who question the inclusion of a country name for a bird species that migrates and spends time in various countries. Notably, the red-crowned crane is China’s national bird.
Conservation status
Siberian crane, Grus leucogeranus
The Siberian crane, also referred to as the Siberian white crane or snow crane, is considered the third rarest species of crane, and it faces critical threats to its survival with no projected plan to reverse its decline. It is believed to be the most critically endangered of all crane species. Within its range, the Siberian crane is associated with longevity and successful marriages. Its population, estimated to be under three thousand, is on a steady decline. This migratory species breeds in northeastern Siberia and traditionally winters in India, but the central population has not been sighted since 2002, while the eastern population is facing threats from recent construction along the Yangtze River in China. Meanwhile, the small western population winters in Iran and breeds in Russia, east of the Ural Mountains.
The second rarest crane in the world is the red-crowned crane, with a population of approximately 2,000 birds. The rarest crane is the whooping crane, which is also considered endangered, along with the snow crane and the red-crowned crane. However, the whooping crane population is showing signs of recovery, with about 300 wild individuals and 150 in captivity, thanks to a comprehensive recovery program. The main body of the species, the Western population, nests at Wood Buffalo National Park in Canada and winters at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge in Texas. A smaller, Eastern population has been established since 2001, nesting in Wisconsin and wintering in Florida. The range of these birds once extended throughout midwestern North America, but their population was reduced to 21 individuals in the wild in 1941. Despite the signs of recovery, the whooping crane remains one of the rarest birds in North America.
The sandhill crane (Grus canadensis), Brolga crane (Grus rubicunda), Demoiselle crane (Anthropoides virgo), Eurasian crane or common crane (Grus grus), and gray crowned crane (Balearica regulorum) are the only five out of the 15 species of cranes that are not classified as vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered.
Cranes face various hazards, including habitat loss, poaching, and unlawful captivity for the exotic pet market.
Species
Gray crowned crane, Balearica regulorum, the national bird of Uganda
Cranes are a family of tall, elegant birds known for their spectacular courtship displays and long-distance migrations. There are 15 living species of cranes that belong to four genera: Grus, Balearica, Anthropoides, and Bugeranus.
The genus Grus is the largest and includes the most well-known crane species, such as the sandhill crane, the whooping crane, and the red-crowned crane. These cranes are found in various habitats, from wetlands and grasslands to taiga forests and farmlands. They are known for their striking plumage and elaborate courtship dances that involve leaping, bowing, and calling.
The Balearica genus consists of two species of cranes: the gray crowned crane and the black crowned crane. These cranes are found in Africa and are known for their distinctive head feathers that resemble crowns. The gray crowned crane is found in eastern and southern Africa, while the black crowned crane is found in West and Central Africa.
The genus Anthropoides includes the demoiselle crane and the blue crane. The demoiselle crane is found in Asia and Africa and is the smallest of all crane species. The blue crane, also known as the Stanley crane, is found in South Africa and is the national bird of that country.
Finally, the genus Bugeranus includes only one species, the wattled crane, which is found in Africa. It is easily recognizable by the fleshy wattle that hangs from its throat and the distinctive red patches on its cheeks.
All crane species face various threats, including habitat loss, hunting, and capture for the pet trade. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect these magnificent birds and their habitats, so that future generations can continue to enjoy their beauty and wonder.
The subfamily Balearicinae includes the species of crowned cranes.
