Demoiselle Crane
Anthropoides virgo
Conservation Status
Least ConcernAves · Gruiformes · Gruidae
About
The demoiselle crane is a species of crane found in central Eurosiberia, ranging from the Black Sea to Mongolia and Northeast China. There is also a small breeding population in Turkey. These cranes are migratory birds. Birds from western Eurasia will spend the winter in Africa while the birds from Asia, Mongolia and China will spend the winter in the Indian subcontinent. The bird is symbolically significant in the culture of India, where it is known as koonj or kurjaa.
Fun Fact
Demoiselle cranes make one of the most harrowing bird migrations on Earth, flying over the Himalayas at altitudes above 7,900 metres (26,000 ft) to reach their wintering grounds in India.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Grasslands and semi-arid steppes
Diet
Omnivore
Lifespan
25-30 years
Threats
- Agricultural Conversion
- Overgrazing