Florida Sandhill Crane
Crus canadensis
CLASS: Aves
ORDER: Gruiformes
FAMILY: Gruidae
SIZE:
3.5 to 4 feet tall
RANGE:
Along Gulf Coast of U.S. from California to Florida
HABITAT:
Moors and marshes, wetlands
DIET:
Wild - Plant material in native areas, small animals such as worms, snails, insects, and sometimes frogs, mice and lizards.
Zoo - Grains, crane diet, meat
DESCRIPTION:
Brownish gray body and legs with red topped head; long, sharp beak
ADAPTATIONS:
Somewhat aggressive birds, very protective of mate, nest and young
Sandhills moult once a year
Loud call when startled or when communicating
The renowned dances once believed to be mating rituals are actually expressions of joy.
YOUNG:
Usually lay 2 eggs in nests built of straw, sticks, or whatever is available. When young hatch, they are covered in golden brown downy feathers.
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