Name

Common Crane

Scientific Name

Grus grus

Characteristics

Cranes are large, graceful birds.  They are recognisable due to their long legs, beak and neck.

The common crane’s plumage (feathers) is mostly pale grey. However, they have dark grey necks, chins and throats and a patch of bare skin, red in colour, on the top of their heads. Common cranes are the most widely distributed crane in the world.

Diet

Cranes are omnivores. They mostly eat plant matter, nuts, grain, small fish and insects.

Size Fact

A full-grown, full-sized crane’s wingspan can reach up to 2 meters wide.

Food Fact

Cranes have been known to eat other birds’ eggs.

Fun Fact

In Japanese culture, cranes are a symbol of peace.

IUCN Red list

Common cranes are classified Least Concern on the IUCN red list.

Where do I live?

Common cranes originate from Eurasia. 

Our animals

At Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, we have two types of crane: the common crane and the grey-crowned crane.