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Grey-Crowned Crane
Balearica regulorum
About
The grey-crowned crane is the national bird of Uganda. They are known for their striking head and wing plumage, which they show off during mating courtship dances. They are one of only two species of cranes that roost in trees or other high places at night, often in large flocks.
Grey-crowned crane parents choose wetlands or other aquatic areas with tall vegetation for their nests. The hatchlings are well hidden among the plants. Baby cranes can float, swim and eat within a day of hatching from their egg! They can live up to 25 years.
Conservation
Grey-crowned cranes are an endangered species, and their populations continue to shrink. They face threats from wetland habitat loss, hunting and egg collection and pesticides.
To help combat the effects of climate change drought effects on wetland habitats, the Indianapolis Zoo participates in AES’s Green Power Offset Program. Indianapolis residents also can help offset carbon that they’re burning in fossil fuels through this program.
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