Name:  East African crowned Crane

Range:
Southern Africa and Western Africa south of the Sahara.

Habitat:
Open country, especially grasslands, near water; require swamps for breeding.

Description:
Distinguishing feature is straw-yellow crown of feathers; bare cheek patches are white with some red, black velvety feathers around the cheek patch; neck feathers are gray and primaries are black.

Adaptations/Habitat:
These cranes are sociable and live in flocks from 6-20, though gatherings of more than 60 have been recorded. Sedentary, makes no long migrations. May spend hours standing motionless on one leg. They are the national bird of Uganda, but are hunted by Ugandans. They normally roost in trees, leaving the roost in early morning and returning at nightfall. They feed 50-75% of the time during daylight hours. Even when in flocks, they may move about in pairs, suggesting a strong pair bond.

Breeding/Growth:

Diet:
Wide range of plant materials, plus lizards, grasshoppers, millipedes, and earthworms.

Exhibit:
Giraffe exhibit

Notes:
STATUS:Common