Grey-crowned Crane Endangered

Grey-crowned Crane

Balearica regulorum

Also known as: Crested Crane

The Grey-crowned Crane is a tall, elegant crane native to eastern and southern Africa. It is easily identified by the golden, crown-like feathers on its head. These cranes frequent wetlands and grasslands and are renowned for elaborate courtship dances.

Did you know?
Grey-crowned Cranes perform coordinated dancing displays that include bows, leaps and wing flapping to strengthen pair bonds.

Quick Facts

Lifespan
20-30 years
Habitat
Wetlands, marshes, floodplains
Diet
Insects, seeds, small vertebrates
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa

Detailed Information on the Grey-crowned Crane

Weight 3.5 kg
Height 100 cm
Length 110 cm
Wingspan 200 cm
Top Speed 50 km/h
Social Structure: Gregarious
Activity Pattern: Diurnal
Trophic Level: Omnivore
Migration: Nomadic

Population Trend: Decreasing

Main Threats:
  • Illegal trade
  • Habitat loss
Maasai Mara (Kenya)
Uganda Wetlands
Family: Gruidae
Order: Gruiformes