Cranes

There are only fifteen species of Cranes, most of which are threatened in the wild. Cranes are large, elegant birds that generally spend much of their lives in wetland environments. Their long-legs, long-necks and large bills are adaptations for wading and feeding in the shallows. Cranes are gregarious birds that often form large flocks. Cranes carryout noisy, elaborate dances involving spreading and flapping their wings, prancing and jumping. These dances play a number of roles including mate selection, pair bonding and territorial defense.