Red-crowned Cranes
Red-crowned Cranes are important symbols throughout Asian culture, representing long life, good fortune and fidelity. This endangered species relies upon remaining wetlands in northeastern China and southeastern Russia for safe breeding areas, a region that is rapidly changing due to development and possible long-term climate change.
The estimated world population of this species is only 2,750 birds, and conservations are concerned that this population may decrease rapidly as development continues near the species’ breeding and wintering areas. However, conservationists are taking steps to protect remaining Red-crowned Crane habitat, and with further research and protection measures, they are hopeful for the future of this endangered species. Photo by Sture Traneving
Red-crowned Crane Fact Sheet
Fun fact: Scientists in China have found 7,000 - 9,000 year old flutes made from Red-crowned Crane wing bones. Learn more
Red-crowned Crane Conservation
Along the East Asia flyway, Red-crowned Cranes breed in northeastern China and southeastern Russia, where they nest and feed in marshes with relatively deep water. Some of these birds winter in the demilitarized zone (DMZ) of Korea, while others fly south to the coastal regions of Jiangsu Province in China. Read more