Red-crowned crane

The red-crowned crane, also called the Manchurian crane, is a large East Asian crane among the rarest cranes in the world. In some parts of its range, it is known as a symbol of luck, longevity, and fidelity.

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Distribution

Region

East Asia

Typical Environment

Breeds in wetlands and riverine marshes of far eastern Russia and northeastern China, with wintering grounds in the Korean Peninsula and eastern China. A resident population occurs year-round in Hokkaido, Japan. Prefers extensive reed-beds, sedge marshes, wet meadows, tidal flats, and shallow lakes with nearby dry ground for foraging and roosting. In winter it also uses agricultural lands such as rice paddies and pasture edges. Human-provided feeding stations support some groups in harsh winters.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1500 m

Climate Zone

Temperate

Characteristics

Size150–158 cm

Wing Span220–250 cm

Male Weight9 kg

Female Weight7.5 kg

Life Expectancy30 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 2/5

Useful to know

Also called the Manchurian crane, it is among the rarest cranes and a powerful symbol of luck, longevity, and fidelity in East Asia. Pairs perform dramatic duet calls and synchronized dances to strengthen bonds. A non-migratory population survives in Hokkaido, Japan, largely thanks to long-running winter feeding programs.

Gallery

At Cumberland wildlife park, Grünau im Almtal, Austria

Grus japonensis (juvenile) in Ueno Zoo, Taitō, Japan

Eating fish in Kushiro.

Red-crowned cranes flying

Cranes honking

Egg of a Red-crowned crane

The crane is carved in a South Korean 500 won coin.

Behaviour

Temperament

wary and territorial during breeding, social in winter

Flight Pattern

strong flier with steady wingbeats and some soaring

Social Behavior

Usually found in bonded pairs or small family groups; pairs are largely monogamous and maintain long-term bonds. They nest on platforms of marsh vegetation in shallow water. In winter they gather in larger flocks at traditional feeding and roosting sites.

Migratory Pattern

Partial migrant

Song Description

Loud, bugling trumpets that carry over long distances, often given in coordinated duets by mated pairs. Calls are resonant and rhythmic, used to declare territory and reinforce pair bonds.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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