The Gray-crowned Crane, scientifically known as Balearica regulorum, belongs to the family Gruidae and is widely distributed in East and South Africa.
Adult Gray-crowned Cranes stand about 1 meter tall and weigh approximately 3.5 kilograms. Their body coat is predominantly gray, while the wings exhibit a mostly white color mixed with various other hues. Adorning their heads is an erect crown of yellow cilia, resembling an elegant crown.
A patch of jet-black hair on the forehead slightly bulges, creating the illusion of a hat, while the sides of the face appear milky white. Their throat boasts a bright red, bulging pouch. The beak is relatively short and is typically gray or black. Their legs are black. Males and females share a similar appearance, with males being slightly larger.
Gray-crowned Cranes primarily feed on insects, invertebrates, reptiles, and small mammals. They occasionally consume fruits and tree nuts as well.
During the mating season, males often perform dances to court the females, showcasing movements such as dancing and bowing. They also emit rather loud squawks, accompanied by the swelling of scarlet pouches on their throats, resonating with the ceremonial dance. Their calls are noted as high-pitched, resembling a car horn.
Their nests are commonly constructed within tall vegetation, often found among wetlands, and are frequently lined with grass and leaves. This bird usually lays 2 to 5 eggs in each clutch. Incubation is shared by both the mother and father, lasting about 28 to 31 days. The chicks are cared for by their parents for a duration of 56 to 100 days.
