Cranes are large to very large birds, with long legs and necks, streamlined bodies, and rounded wings. The 15 species live in wetlands and grasslands around the world, except South America. Some migrate; others do not.
The smallest is the Demoiselle Crane; the largest, the Sarus Crane, is the world's tallest flying bird.
Within the crane family are two groups.
- Crowned Cranes have tawny crests on their heads, prehensile toes that let them roost in trees, and are found only in Africa.
- Typical Cranes tolerate colder weather, nest on the ground, and can be found around the world.
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Sites 3
- Let's Learn About Cranes! Tells about how they make sounds, run, and fight, and why they are one of the most endangered bird families in the world.
- Operation Migration Non-profit organization that uses ultra light aircraft to return migrating Whooping cranes to eastern North America. Contains facts and information on crane migration photographs.
- Sandhill Crane Read cool facts, learn where they go in the summer and winter, and hear what they sound like.