Cranes - Family Drudae

These birds are widespread with fifteen species in North America. None of this family live in South America. The Sandhill Crane is fairly numerous, and the Whooping Crane is a protected bird. Cranes look a lot like herons, but are not related to them. The difference can be noted in their flight, because the heron flies with the neck outstretched. Also their wing upstroke is faster than their downstroke. Cranes are amongst the tallest birds. They prefer open country and nest on the ground. The female lays only two eggs. Cranes are noted by their lack of color, usually vary between black and white and many have a bare patch on their head.