Siberian cranes are notable for their snowy white plumage, which contrasts sharply with their black flight feathers, visible only during flight. They have a red face and long, slender legs and are among the tallest of the cranes, standing about 140 cm tall. These birds breed in the Arctic tundra of northern Russia, where the landscape is characterized by vast, treeless plains that freeze for much of the year.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Siberian crane’s life is its long migratory journey. There are three main populations, each with its own migration route: the western, the eastern, and the central. The eastern population travels over 5000 kilometers from northeastern Siberia to winter in the Yangtze River basin in China, showcasing one of the longest migrations of any crane species. Their breeding takes place in the secluded wetlands of the Arctic tundra. These areas provide the isolation and protection needed for the cranes to raise their young. The Siberian crane is known for its fidelity both to its partner and its nesting site, often returning to the same location year after year.

The survival of the Siberian crane faces numerous threats. Habitat loss due to human activity is the most significant challenge. The draining of wetlands for agriculture, particularly along their migratory routes and wintering grounds, has led to a drastic reduction in suitable habitats. Climate change also poses a long-term threat by altering the wetland ecosystems essential for their breeding and wintering.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Afghanistan

2018

Possibly Extinct

Azerbaijan

2018

Passage

China

2018

Hong Kong

2018

Vagrant

India

2018

Possibly Extinct

Iran

2018

Non-Breeding

Japan

2018

Vagrant

Jordan

2018

Vagrant

Kazakhstan

2018

Passage

Korea

2018

Vagrant

Mongolia

2018

Pakistan

2018

Possibly Extinct

Russia

2018

Passage: European Russia

Turkmenistan

2018

Possibly Extinct

Uzbekistan

2018

Passage