East African crowned cranes (also called gray crowned cranes) get their name from a distinctive tuft of bristle-like golden feathers located on the top of the head. They are mostly gray, with white upper and under wing coverts and a black head. They have large white cheek patches with a small triangle of red near the top. The legs and bill are black, eyes are light gray, and have a scarlet throat lappet. Their bill is short in comparison with other cranes.

What They Eat
These cranes are omnivores and eat plants, seeds, grain, insects, frogs and lizards. Stamping their large feet as they walk, they flush out insects that are quickly caught and eaten.

Where They Live
East African crowned cranes are found in the marshes, cultivated lands and grassy flatlands near rivers and lakes in eastern Congo, Uganda, and Kenya to central Tanzania.

What They Do
Crowned cranes are the only species of crane that can roost in trees due to their long prehensile hallux (back toe) positioned low on the foot. They have large wings for excellent flying ability. They also have excellent peripheral vision useful for location of predators on the savanna.

How They’re Doing
Recent estimates place the total population at 75,000-85,000. Although the species remains relatively abundant, the total estimated population has declined from more than 100,000 over the last decade. It no longer occurs in certain portions of its historic range (especially the drier areas) and is classified as endangered by the IUCN.

Click on an image to enlarge.

East African Crowned Crane

East African Crowned Crane