WILDLIFE SPECIES

Crane

Cranes are large, long-legged and long-necked birds of the order Gruiformes , and family Gruidae . Unlike the similar-looking but unrelated herons , cranes fly with necks outstretched, not pulled back. Most have elaborate and noisy courting displays or "dances". They mate for life. Some species of cranes migrate over long distances, while cranes in warm climates do not migrate at all. Cranes are gregarious, forming large flocks where their numbers are sufficient.

Everywhere crane numbers are diminishing. The plight of the Whooping Cranes of North America inspired some of the first US legislation to protect endangered species .

They are opportunistic feeders that may change their diet according to the season. They eat suitably sized prey such as small rodents , fish and amphibians , but will eat grain and berries during late summer and autumn (the cranberry is so-named from its being extensively eaten by some northern species of crane).

Cranes pursue small prey, and sometimes each other, by running. A running crane takes one to three steps per second and may use its wings for balance and to gain speed. While a running crane looks awkward, they can easily outrun humans. Cranes do not have webbed feet, but they can swim, although adult birds usually avoid deeper water unless necessary. Chicks are good swimmers and may leave the nest to follow the parents through the wetlands, sometimes within a few hours of hatching.

Feathers give cranes both the ability to fly and to regulate their temperature. Made of the same material as human fingernails, feathers require constant attention. A crane preens by nibbling the base of a feather and then drawing it through the bill. Preening straightens and closes repairable gaps in the feather. When preening, cranes may apply oil to the feathers obtained from a special gland located on top of the tail. Contrary to previous belief, the oil does not serve as waterproofing, but helps condition the feathers and may also have fungicidal and antibacterial properties. Prolonged preening sessions follow water or dust bathing.

Wildlife Species

» Asiatic Lion
» Black Buck
» Elephant
» Indian Peacock
» Leopard

» Bangal Tiger
» Camel
» Indian Deer
» Indian Rhino

» Cranes
» Cobra
» Indian Langur
» Indian Tiger

Indian National Park Reservation Form

(* represents compulsory fields)

*Your Name :
* Phone : Country/Area Code)
*Your Country :
*E-Mail Address :

* Tentative Date of Travel:
Duration of Travel in India (Approx.):
No. of People Travelling:	Adult Children

* Describe Your Travel Plan / Requirements :