Red-crowned Crane
NameRed-crowned Crane
Common NameRed-crowned Crane
Scientific NameGrus japonensis
FamilyGruidae
Wingspan (cm)220
Length (cm)140
Weight (g)8500
Plumage DetailsPredominantly pure white body plumage, with black secondary and tertiary feathers that appear as a black 'tail' when the bird is standing. The neck and face are also black, contrasting sharply with the white body. A bare patch of red skin is present on the crown, which becomes brighter during breeding season.
Vocalization / CallKnown for their loud, trumpeting calls, often given in unison by a pair. These calls are resonant and can carry over long distances, used for communication, territorial defense, and pair bonding.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetlands, marshes, rivers, rice paddies, agricultural fields
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeFound in East Asia, with breeding populations in southeastern Russia, northeastern China, and Hokkaido, Japan. Migratory populations winter in the Korean Peninsula and parts of China.
Identifying Featureslarge size, pure white body plumage, black neck and secondary/tertiary feathers, distinctive red crown patch, long black legs
Description
The Red-crowned Crane is a large, elegant water bird known for its striking black and white plumage and a distinctive patch of red skin on its crown. These cranes are highly social, often seen in pairs or small groups, and are famous for their elaborate courtship dances.
