Crane

The crane (Grus grus) is an elegant and distinctive bird, the European distribution of which is now limited to northern and northeastern Europe, although it was formerly found more widely in central and western Europe. They winter mainly in the Sudan and Ethiopia, with some in the Mediterranean region.

A small number can be seen in southern and eastern England during migrations, and there is even a site where they are known to breed in very small numbers. However, the location of this site is a well-kept secret in order to protect the birds. Cranes used to breed regularly in the United Kingdom, but have not done so in appreciable numbers for several centuries.


Appearance

Male cranes are larger than the females, with males being some 122 centimetres (48 inches) in length to the females’ 112 centimetres (44 inches). They are long-legged with a long neck, shortish bill, and long dark tertial wing feathers that droop over the tail. The general colour of the body is grey, apart from the much darker outer wing feathers. The head and neck are black and white, with a red patch on the crown of the head. The bill is yellow and the legs dark grey. Male and female cranes have similar plumage.


Behaviour

Cranes are strong fliers, with the neck and tail extended. Flocks of cranes fly in lines or V formations. On the ground they walk sedately with long strides, keeping the body level and the neck curved. When at rest they stand upright.

The crane has a high-pitched trumpeting call and a short “kurroo” that is heard when nesting.

Cranes feed mainly on plant material such as seeds and grain, but also on insects, worms and molluscs.


Breeding

Cranes arrive at their breeding grounds in mid March and April, their preferred habitats being marshy areas with lakes, and extensive meadows near still water. Cranes pair up after they arrive, performing a noisy courtship ritual that involves a sort of dance with much trumpeting, hopping on one foot, running in circles with wings outstretched, and leaping into the air.

The nest is built on islets on the water, flattened reeds or grass clumps. The nest itself is a mass of twigs and reeds.

Two eggs are usually laid, in April or May, although sometimes the number is only one and sometimes it is three. Both partners incubate the eggs, for up to 30 days. The chicks leave the nest as soon as they hatch, being able to swim from birth.


Conservation

The crane has amber conservation status in the UK as a species that is under moderate threat. This is due to the small numbers that visit the country plus concern over its habitat. Historically, their numbers have declined because of shooting and drainage of wetlands in eastern England.

© John Welford