The Wattled Crane is a large species of crane found in Africa. In fact, at up to five feet nine inches tall, it is the largest crane species in Africa.
Wattled Cranes have grey body plumage, white necks, and prominent white wattles hanging below the upper throat. Males and females look alike, though males are larger.
Wattled Cranes are dependent on wetlands. They are resident birds in their range, across central parts of sub-Saharan Africa.
The Wattled Crane is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List and was last assessed in 2013 by BirdLife International. Although it is known that there have been some population declines, there is limited and conflicting information on trends for this species, even in key areas. Until better data can be obtained, it is listed as Vulnerable since it has a small population which appears to have undergone a rapid decline which, with threats continuing or increasing, is projected to continue.
Some birds have fleshy growths hanging or protruding from the head or the neck. When these are a normal part of their anatomy, they are called caruncles. Caruncles are often made of bare skin, though some may have a sparse covering... Read more »
