| Where
in the world?
Found in marshes and grasslands near rivers and lakes; also near
cultivated land. Occurs in eastern Zaire, Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania.
It is the national bird of Uganda.
What are some behaviors?
Social and gregarious during most of the year, moving about in flocks
of up to 100 and roosting in trees or riverbeds.
Their loud, melodious call, usually given in
flight, may have given rise to some of the beliefs held by the African
people who share their habitat. Some believe the cranes bring rain
and others incorporate the crane dances into their own rituals.
The cranes' long legs and necks and excellent peripheral vision
help them spot predators in the tall Savannah grasses.
What about offspring?
During the breeding season pairs of cranes construct a large nest
of grasses and vegetation on marshy ground or in shallow water.
Two to three eggs are laid, and both parents take turns incubating
them for 30 days. Chicks are precocial, can run as soon as they
hatch, and fly in 10 weeks. These birds are monogamous. When breeding
is successful, they will remain paired for life.
All cranes are noted for their spectacular dances
which involves head-bobbing, wing fluttering, leaps and bows. Both
sexes dance, and immature birds join the adults. Dancing is an integral
part of courtship but also may be done at any time of the year.
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What does it eat?
An omnivore, the crowned crane eats plants, seeds, grain, insects,
frogs, worms, snakes, small fish and eggs of water animals. Stamping
their feet as they walk, they flush out insects which are quickly
caught and eaten.
Is it threatened
or endangered?
Many swamps and marshes where crowned cranes nest are being drained
for agriculture. Crowned cranes are popular attractions in zoos
and are often the victims of illegal trade. Though not yet considered
endangered, their future is far from certain. |
