Grey Crowned-Crane
Balearica regulorum
Conservation Status
EndangeredAves · Gruiformes · Gruidae
About
The grey crowned crane or gray crowned crane is a large crane species native to Sub-Saharan Africa. It occurs mainly in dry savannah, although it nests in somewhat wetter habitats, and can also be found in marshes, cultivated lands and grassy flatlands near rivers and lakes. Its body plumage is mainly grey and it has white cheeks, a red throat patch, and a stiff golden crown. It is omnivorous, consuming a wide variety of animal and plant matter, including plants, seeds, grain, insects, frogs, worms, snakes, small fish and the eggs of aquatic animals. It is listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List.
Fun Fact
Grey Crowned-Cranes can mate in the air and are the only cranes that roost in trees—they use their long hindtoe, lost in other cranes, to grip branches.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Occurs in dry savannah in Sub-Saharan Africa, although it nests in somewhat wetter habitats.
Diet
Eating plants, seeds, grain, insects, frogs, worms, snakes, small fish and the eggs of aquatic animals.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Wetland Drainage and Degradation
- Illegal Capture and Illegal Pet Trade
- Pesticide Poisoning
- Drought and Climate Variability