Demoiselle Crane

The Demoiselle Crane is the smallest of the world’s 15 crane species and is a graceful bird known for its elegant appearance. Demoiselle cranes are highly social and often migrate in large flocks, traveling vast distances between their nesting grounds in Siberia and China and wintering grounds in Africa and southern Asia, including flying over the Himalayas at elevations approaching 30,000 feet. Unlike most of the other crane species, Demoiselles in the wild are still abundant. As with most cranes, they have elaborate courtship displays, which include intricate dances and vocalizations that strengthen pair bonds. Their graceful movements and social behaviors make them a delightful member of our avicultural population.