Description:
The grey crowned crane is a striking bird native to eastern and southern Africa, notable for its impressive and elaborate plumage. This elegant crane features a predominantly grey body with a striking golden crown of feathers on top of its head, which gives it its name. Its long legs and neck, combined with a black and white tail, add to its graceful appearance. Known for their elaborate courtship dances and complex vocalisations, these cranes play an important role in their ecosystems.
RWCA © Will Wilson
Key facts
Population:
The current estimated population has declined from an estimated 100,000 in 1985. Once plentiful in Rwanda, there are now fewer than 500 individuals left.
Diet:
Habitat:
They can be found in forests, savannah, grasslands, wetlands, freshwater and marine habitats. They take to tall trees to nest when night falls.
Range:
Grey-crowned cranes reside in eastern and southern Africa, with the largest remaining populations believed to be in Kenya, Uganda, Zambia and South Africa.
Akagera National Park - Rwarda © RWCA
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy - Kenya © Emily Higgs/Tusk
Threats
The principal threat is habitat loss and degradation (including draining) of their wetland breeding areas. Further threats to the grey crowned crane include the illegal removal of the birds and their eggs from the wild, to be kept in captivity by wealthy families or hotels, where they are believed to be a symbol of wealth and longevity to those who own them.
Conservation
Tusk works with the Rwanda Wildlife Conservation Association, which is combatting the threats faced by the cranes, protecting their habitat and stopping the illegal trade. The grey-crowned crane is protected by law in Kenya, South Africa, Uganda and Zimbabwe.
Learn more about the projects
The principal threat is habitat loss and degradation (including draining) of their wetland breeding areas. Further threats to the grey crowned crane include the illegal removal of the birds and their eggs from the wild, to be kept in captivity by wealthy families or hotels, where they are believed to be a symbol of wealth and longevity to those who own them.
Conservation
Tusk works with the Rwanda Wildlife Conservation Association, which is combatting the threats faced by the cranes, protecting their habitat and stopping the illegal trade. The grey-crowned crane is protected by law in Kenya, South Africa, Uganda and Zimbabwe.