Wattled Crane

Habitat

Grass-dominated wetlands in the floodplains of rivers and small highland marshlands.

Wild Diet

Grasses, weeds, insects, fish and amphibians.

Behaviour

This species is typically seen in pairs or in a trio consisting of a breeding pair, which defend a territory, and a juvenile. The wattles become elongated when the bird is aggressive and shrink when the bird is threatened. Wattled cranes are usually quiet birds.

Breeding

Usually, a single egg is produced, and if two eggs are laid, just one chick will be reared. The incubation period is the longest of any crane species at 33 to 36 days. The fledging period is also the longest of any crane, at 90 to 130 days, and means that the chicks are particularly at risk from predation.

Threats

The loss and degradation of wetland habitats, largely caused by the intensification of agriculture, industrialisation and dam building.

Conservation

The total population is estimated at 13,000 - 15,000. Conservation of habitat on private lands and education programmes, sponsored by private groups, have been initiated. There is a small reintroduction programme in South Africa.