Whooping crane

The tallest bird of North America- saved from the brink of extinction, with less than 20 left in the ’40s

U.S. Department of Agriculture

This species got almost extinct in the mid-20th century due to overhunting and habitat loss. The continuous efforts on behalf of the government, environmentalists, and volunteers helped to regain this dear bird. The height of this bird reaches up to 1.5m (5 ft), making it the tallest and rarest bird in North America.

These regal white birds inhabit marshes, lagoons, and shallow lakes. Their neck is exceptionally tall and flexible, which helps in foraging. They devour blue crabs and wolfberries on wintering grounds, while small mammals, insects, and amphibians are preferred on breeding grounds. The clutch size ranges from one to three eggs, with only one baby crane surviving (but a miracle is always possible).

Distribution

Country
Population est.
Status
Year
Comments
Canada
2020
Mexico
0
Official estimate
EX
2020
Extinct locally
United States
2020

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Terrestrial / Aquatic

Altricial / Precocial

Polygamous / Monogamous

Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic

Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal

Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd / Flock

Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore

Migratory: Yes / No

Domesticated: Yes / No

Dangerous: Yes / No