Common Crane
Grus grus
Conservation Status
Least ConcernAves · Gruiformes · Gruidae
About
The common crane, also known as the Eurasian crane, is a bird of the family Gruidae, the cranes. A medium-sized species, it is the only crane commonly found in Europe besides the demoiselle crane and the Siberian crane that only are regular in the far eastern part of the continent. Along with the sandhill crane, demoiselle crane and the brolga, it is one of only four crane species not currently classified as threatened with extinction or conservation dependent on the species level. Despite the species' large numbers, local extinctions and extirpations have taken place in part of its range, and an ongoing reintroduction project is underway in the United Kingdom.
Fun Fact
Common cranes perform elaborate dancing displays involving bowing, jumping, and tossing objects into the air — behaviors observed not just during courtship but throughout the year as social bonding.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Wetlands and agricultural fields
Diet
Omnivore
Lifespan
20-30 years
Threats
- Dam Construction
- Water Pollution