Common Crane
Grus grus
Copied!
Grus grus
Copied!
Mass
~6 kg
Habitat
Wetlands and marshes
Diet
Omnivore
How to recognize it
The Common Crane is large and calm in its movements. In flight, its long neck, trailing legs, and steady wingbeats make it easy to remember.
Outside the breeding season it often stays in pairs or flocks, and in spring the pair can put on a striking dance with hops, wing flapping, and a strutting walk. Its voice is strong and far carrying, especially when it calls on the wing.
It breeds in marshes, wet meadows, and flooded river flats, then moves to open country near fields and pasture for the colder months. It feeds on plants, grain, insects, worms, and other available food, and many populations move south in autumn.
Quick Facts
Listen to the call
The Common Crane is large and calm in its movements. In flight, its long neck, trailing legs, and steady wingbeats make it easy to remember.
Outside the breeding season it often stays in pairs or flocks, and in spring the pair can put on a striking dance with hops, wing flapping, and a strutting walk. Its voice is strong and far carrying, especially when it calls on the wing.
It breeds in marshes, wet meadows, and flooded river flats, then moves to open country near fields and pasture for the colder months. It feeds on plants, grain, insects, worms, and other available food, and many populations move south in autumn.
How to recognize it
Sources
- eBird — Grus grus Sightings map and full description on eBird
- Wikipedia — Common crane Encyclopedia article