Cranes are elegant birds. From their towering height to their unique head markings, several features define their look.
General Appearance and Stature
Cranes are large, tall birds distinguished by their slender bodies, long legs, and elongated necks. An adult crane can stand anywhere from 2.5 to 6 feet tall, with some species, like the Whooping Crane, reaching up to 5 feet, making them North America’s tallest birds. Their streamlined build often features a “bustle” of drooping feathers near the tail.
They maintain a stately, upright posture, whether standing or walking. In flight, cranes extend their necks straight forward and their long legs trail directly behind, a key differentiator from herons, which typically fly with their necks hunched. Their substantial wingspans, which can exceed 7 feet in some species, allow them to soar efficiently, often riding thermal air currents to conserve energy during long flights.
Distinctive Features
Cranes possess several unique features. Their plumage often consists of muted colors, predominantly shades of grey, white, or brown, with black accents. For instance, the Sandhill Crane is typically slate grey, though its feathers can sometimes appear reddish-brown.
A prominent characteristic across many crane species is the presence of bare skin patches on their heads, frequently red in color. These patches, such as the bright red forehead of the Sandhill Crane or the vivid crimson crown of the Whooping Crane, can change color or expand in area when the bird is excited, and are used in communication. Some species, like the Crowned Cranes, feature a golden, ornamental tuft of feathers, adding to their unique head adornments. Cranes generally have straight, pointed bills, which they utilize for foraging, and their eyes often display a striking yellow color.
Key Visual Differences Among Species
While cranes share a general body plan, visual distinctions exist among the various species. The Sandhill Crane, for example, is characterized by its light grey plumage and the noticeable red patch on its forehead, complemented by white cheeks. Its overall grey coloration can sometimes be tinged with rust, especially on the upperparts.
In contrast, the Whooping Crane stands out with its predominantly white body, accented by black primary flight feathers that are visible during flight. This species also features a prominent red crown and a black facial patch. The Common Crane, another example, typically has slate-grey plumage with a darker neck and face, distinguished by a white streak running from the eyes down the neck and a distinct red patch on its crown.