The grey crowned crane or gray crowned crane is a large crane species native to Sub-Saharan Africa. It occurs mainly in dry savannah, although it nests in somewhat wetter habitats, and can also be found in marshes, cultivated lands and grassy flatlands near rivers and lakes. Its body plumage is mainly grey and it has white cheeks, a red throat patch, and a stiff golden crown. It is omnivorous, consuming a wide variety of animal and plant matter, including plants, seeds, grain, insects, frogs, worms, snakes, small fish and the eggs of aquatic animals. It is listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List.
Region
Eastern and Southern Africa
Typical Environment
This species ranges across eastern and southern sub-Saharan Africa, including Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and South Africa. It favors open grasslands and savannahs near permanent or seasonal wetlands. Birds forage widely in dry areas but typically nest in wetter sites with dense emergent vegetation. It also uses agricultural lands and floodplains, often near rivers and lakes. Local movements track rainfall and water availability.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 3000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The grey crowned crane is the national bird of Uganda and is famous for its striking golden crown of stiff feathers. Unlike most cranes, it often roosts in trees thanks to a long hind toe (hallux) that allows perching. Courtship involves elaborate dances with bowing, leaping, and synchronized calls. It is threatened by wetland loss, disturbance, and capture for trade.
In flight
Two adults face to face
With nest in Hellabrunn Zoo, Munich
Eggs of B. r. gibbericeps at the MHNT
Flag of Uganda
Temperament
social and alert, territorial during breeding
Flight Pattern
strong flier with slow, deep wingbeats and neck outstretched
Social Behavior
Forms long-term pair bonds and performs elaborate courtship dances with leaping, bowing, and mutual calling. Breeds in wetlands where a platform nest is built among reeds or sedges; typically lays 2–5 eggs. Outside the breeding season it gathers in flocks and often roosts communally in trees.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations include loud, trumpeting honks and bugling calls, often delivered in duets by pairs. The inflatable gular sac adds resonance, producing carrying calls that help maintain contact over open habitats.
