Sandhill Crane
NameSandhill Crane
Common NameSandhill Crane
Scientific NameAntigone canadensis
FamilyGruidae
Wingspan (cm)180
Length (cm)105
Weight (g)4750
Plumage DetailsAdults are primarily gray, often stained with rust-brown from iron-rich mud, with a bare red patch on the crown and forehead, white cheeks, and a long, dark bill. Juveniles are mottled brown and gray, lacking the prominent red crown.
Vocalization / CallLoud, rattling, trumpeting calls, often described as a 'gar-oo-oo' sound, which can be heard from long distances and are characteristic of their flocks.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetlands, marshes, wet meadows, agricultural fields, tundra, prairies
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across North America, breeding in Canada, Alaska, and the northern U.S., and wintering in the southern U.S. and Mexico. Some populations also occur in Siberia.
Identifying Featureslarge size, long legs and neck, gray body (often rust-stained), red crown (adults), distinctive trumpeting call, elaborate courtship dance
Description
The Sandhill Crane is a large, long-legged, and long-necked bird known for its elegant appearance and distinctive calls. Adults typically exhibit a gray body with a prominent red patch on their forehead, while juveniles are more brownish.
