Gruidae

The Gruidae are a family of large, long-legged, and long-necked birds in the order Gruiformes. Commonly known as cranes, these birds are found on all continents except Antarctica and South America. They are known for their elaborate and graceful courtship dances, long migrations, and loud, trumpeting calls.

Description

Cranes are large birds, often with a wingspan exceeding 2 meters. They have long legs adapted for wading and long necks that are held straight during flight. Their plumage is generally grey or white, often with patches of red, black, or brown on the head and neck. Unlike herons, cranes fly with necks outstretched, not pulled back.

Behavior

Cranes are known for their complex and noisy courting displays or "dances". These dances involve various behaviors such as head bobbing, wing flapping, and leaping. They are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plant material, insects, small vertebrates, and grains. Cranes are also known for their long migrations, with some species traveling thousands of kilometers between their breeding and wintering grounds.

Habitat

Cranes inhabit a variety of open landscapes, including wetlands, grasslands, and savannas. They require large, undisturbed areas for breeding and roosting. Wetlands are particularly important for many species, providing both food and nesting sites.

Reproduction

Cranes are monogamous and often form long-term pair bonds. They build large nests out of plant material, usually in shallow water. The female typically lays two eggs, and both parents share in the incubation and care of the young. The chicks are precocial, meaning they are relatively mature and mobile shortly after hatching.

Conservation

Many crane species are threatened or endangered due to habitat loss, hunting, and other human activities. Conservation efforts include habitat protection, captive breeding, and international cooperation to protect migratory routes.

Genera and Species

The family Gruidae is divided into two subfamilies: Balearicinae (crowned cranes) and Gruinae (typical cranes). Notable genera and species include:

• Balearica - Crowned cranes
• Grus - Typical cranes
• Antigone - Sarus crane and related species
• Bugeranus - Wattled crane

Related Pages

• Gruiformes
• Bird migration
• Wetland
• Endangered species

See Also

• List of birds
• Bird anatomy
• Courtship display