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RED-CROWNED CRANE

Class: Birds


Order: Gruiformes


Family: Gruidae


Genus: Grus


Species: Grusjaponensis


Geographic distribution: Eastern Asia


Habitat: Deep-water marshes


Size / Wingspan: 160 cm / 240 cm


Longevity: 30 to 50 years


Weight: 7 to 10 kg


Sexual maturity: 2 – 3 years


Incubation: 1 month


Clutch: 2 eggs


Diet: Omnivore, insects, amphibians, fish, rodents, grasses


Protection Status: IUCN Status CR – Vulnerable

Description

The red-crowned crane is one of the largest birds in the world. This species is distinguished by its ability to feed in deep waters, a rare behavior among cranes. To do so, it walks half-submerged in muddy areas and uses its longbeak to catch prey within its reach.

Threats and preservation

The red-crowned crane is threatened by habitat loss due to agriculture and road infrastructure. To protect it, international agreements and researchon its migratory patterns have been established. Protected areas have been created, and winter feeding stations help the cranes survive during the winter. Japan has also made its power lines morevisible to reduce collisions, and regular surveys are conducted in breeding and wintering areas.