Hokkaido is one of the very best places to see the endangered red-crowned crane (Grus japonensis). There are several stable roosting sites in rivers, and several feeding sites as well that they visit throughout the winter, and this is shot at one such location in Tsurui.
With a wingspan of up to 250 cm (8 ft 2 in) and height of up to 158 cm (5 ft 2 in) it’s one of the largest species of crane in the world.
Although winter is still holding strong, the days are getting longer, and with it the cranes are getting the feels for another season of bonding, whilst others are one their very first journey of finding a mate. Each day more and more cranes will start posturing, jumping and vocalizing. Some one their own, others with their mate for life.
This individual just can’t help it and like a tick just begins his pre-flight check for the mating season.
It sounds like this:
Last updated on 8 November 2024
