The white-naped crane is a bird in the crane family, Gruidae. It breeds in shallow wetlands and wet meadows in northeastern Mongolia, northeastern China, and adjacent areas of southeastern Russia. It is a large bird measuring 112–125 cm (44–49 in) long, about 130 cm (4.3 ft) tall, and weighing about 5.6 kg (12 lb), with pinkish legs, a grey-and-white-striped neck, and a red face patch.
Region
Northeast Asia
Typical Environment
Breeds in shallow wetlands, wet meadows, and steppe marshes of northeastern Mongolia, northeastern China (Heilongjiang, Jilin), and adjacent southeastern Russia (Amur and Primorye). During migration and winter it concentrates in the lower Yangtze floodplain of China, the Korean Peninsula (notably the DMZ and Cheorwon/Cholwon Basin), and southern Japan (Izumi Plain, Kyushu). It uses a mosaic of natural marshes, river floodplains, and agricultural lands, especially rice paddies and stubble fields. Key stopover sites are few and highly important for refueling.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
White-naped cranes form long-term pair bonds and perform elaborate unison dances with trumpeting calls. Much of the remaining population winters at a few key sites such as the Izumi Plain in Japan and the Korean Demilitarized Zone, making them vulnerable to habitat changes. Conservation efforts focus on protecting wetlands and traditional rice-field landscapes used during migration and winter.
Temperament
social and cautious; territorial in breeding season
Flight Pattern
strong flier with steady wingbeats and occasional glides; often flies in loose V-formations
Social Behavior
Pairs are monogamous and perform synchronized dances and duets to strengthen bonds. Nests are built on raised platforms in marshes, typically laying two eggs and raising one chick. Outside the breeding season they gather in family groups and larger flocks at traditional staging and wintering sites.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Loud, resonant bugling calls that carry over long distances, often given in antiphonal duets by pairs. Contact calls are lower and more nasal, used within family groups.
