Crane - Black Crowned

Other Breeds

Keeshond   |   Palomino   |   Pig – Pot Bellied   |  

Alternative Name

Scientific Name: Balearica pavonina

Basic Info

The Black Crowned Crane, and other crowned cranes may be distinguished from other crane species by the presence of the "hallux," which are long hind toes. The hallux allow them to grip branches easily. This adaptation may explain why the Black and Grey Crowned Cranes roost in trees, while other species do not. There are two subspecies of Black Crowned Crane, the West African Crowned Crane (Balearica pavonina pavonina) and the Sudan Crowned Crane (Balearica pavonina ceciliae). The subspecies are quite similar in appearance, but they can be distinguished by the differences in their cheek coloration. The Sudan Crowned Crane has a red patch that extends much higher than that of the West African Crowned Crane.

Health

Breeding The Black Crowned Crane is often seen nesting in wetlands of its native Africa. They form large circular nests made primarily of grasses. After the females lay their eggs, they will incubate between 28 and 31 days. After hatching the birds will usually move out of the wetlands into drier regions. The average number of babies is between two and three. Babies fledge between 60 and 100 days.

Habitat

Only found in Africa

Behavior

The Black Crowned Crane is cherished for its astonishing grace and beauty. This striking bird is native to Africa, where it is held in high esteem and is often considered a symbol of good fortune. It is even the national bird of Nigeria. The Black Crowned Crane is unusual among cranes because it is one of the few cranes that have the ability to roost in trees. The only other crane known to exhibit this behavior is the Grey Crowned Crane. The Black Crowned Crane makes its home in the grasslands of Africa, though during the breeding season they are also found in wetlands.

Origin

Africa

History

The Black Crowned Crane is a non-migratory bird that is only found in Africa, primarily in the Sahel region, which is north of the tropical rainforests but south of the Sahara. Sadly, their populations have seriously declined in West Africa, though they still maintain a stable population in Ethiopia and the Sudan savannas. The main causes for the population decline of the Black Crowned Crane is habitat destruction and serious draught. They are also commonly hunted and sold. The West African Crowned Crane has much lower population densities than the Sudan Crowned Crane. Conservation efforts are being made and it is currently protected in many African countries.

Common Foods

In the wild they feed on insects and seeds.