The iconic and unmistakable red crowned crane, which gets its name from the disc of bare skin on top of its head, has been a symbol of loyalty and immortality for centuries. They are highly endangered due to the shrinking of their wetland habitat and are the second rarest crane species in the world.
Adults have a white body, scarlet crown and a black tail and neck, whereas younger birds lack the red crown and have a light brown neck and brownish speckling on the wings. They not only eat fish but also small amphibians and rodents and marsh plants.
They are active and social bird and call and dance to warn each other to stay away, or even to play. During the day, they can be found in pairs or groups but normally come together at night to roost. They are monogamous and often mate for life and their graceful mating dance is one of the wonders of the animal kingdom!
These photos were taken in Hokkaido in Japan which is the most promising example of population restoration in the world, the birds here depend on local feeding stations and the population is slowly increasing.
