The grey crowned crane (Balearica regulorum), also known as the African crowned crane, golden crested crane, golden crowned crane, East African crane, East African crowned crane, African crane, Eastern crowned crane, Kavirondo crane, South African crane, and crested crane, is a in the family, . It is found in nearly all of Africa, especially in eastern and southern , and it is the national bird of Uganda.
The grey crowned crane is closely related to the Black Crowned Crane, and the two species have sometimes been treated as the same species. The two are separable on the basis of genetic evidence, calls, plumage, and bare parts, and all authorities treat them as different species today.
Unlike other cranes, crowned cranes usually roost in trees. They can flock in large numbers, anywhere between 30 and 150. The grey crowned crane is the national bird of Uganda. The chicks are 'precocial' which means they can run as soon as they hatch.
A symbol of wealth and longevity, the Grey Crowned Crane is emblematic in a country rebuilding after the devastating genocide of 1994. Globally endangered, these birds have suffered a drastic decline over the last 45 years and currently, less than 500 remain in Rwanda.
Both sexes dance, and immature birds join the adults. Dancing is an integral part of courtship, but also may be done at any time of the year.
These birds are noted for their spectacular dances, which involve head-bobbing, wing fluttering, leaps and bows. Crowned cranes are the only crane species to perch in trees. They fly with the neck extended forward and legs stretched horizontally behind the tail.
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Animals On Earth: Africa
CasualeHere's the second book of the Animals On Earth Series, this time it's about African Animals which includes the likes of Elephants, crocodiles, lions, meerkats, mongooses, warthogs, caracals, cheetahs, ostritches, rhinos, tick-birds, buffalo, gazzele...
