Animal Guide

Red-Crowned Crane

22 destinations · 17 states

Native Range: Northeastern Asia

The red-crowned crane is hard to miss, especially when it walks slowly across an open habitat with its long legs and elegant posture. Look closely at the head and you will spot the small patch of bare red skin that gives this crane its name. That crown can become especially noticeable when the bird is calling, displaying, or interacting with another crane. Pairs may bow, stretch their wings, or leap into the air together, turning a quiet moment into a surprisingly lively display. Outside those bursts of activity, cranes spend much of their time foraging, carefully picking through grass, shallow water, or mud for food. Their calls can also carry a long way, so listen for them even when the birds are standing still. Native to wetlands and grasslands of northeastern Asia, red-crowned cranes are also known for their strong pair bonds. Watching two birds move together makes those quiet interactions easy to appreciate.

Red-Crowned Crane

Where to see Red-Crowned Crane

22 destinations across 17 states

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