East African Crowned Crane
In my opinion, this bird is one of the most beautiful animals in the world, and I must say that it was incredibly satisfying to paint. With an elegant slate grey body that almost looks like a fur coat as it climbs up the neck, the main attraction for me is the incredible head of this bird. It’s geometric segmentation of black, white and red shapes is so perfect and then comes the piece de resistance -a spectacular crown of feathers that look just like a hat constructed of straw.
As it’s name suggests, Eastern Africa is where the Crowned Crane is found. It lives in both wet and dry open habitats, but prefers to be near grasslands where water is nearby. It is omnivorous, feeding on a wide range of aquatic animals, insects, snakes and plants. They hunt for food all day, and at night retire to the trees to sleep.
East African Crowned Cranes are highly social; they congregate in flocks of up to 150 and often interact by dancing together as a group. In fact, the cranes have been observed gathering in large numbers to witness a young male and female join in union, dance together and then fly off to mate.
As it’s name suggests, Eastern Africa is where the Crowned Crane is found. It lives in both wet and dry open habitats, but prefers to be near grasslands where water is nearby. It is omnivorous, feeding on a wide range of aquatic animals, insects, snakes and plants. They hunt for food all day, and at night retire to the trees to sleep.
East African Crowned Cranes are highly social; they congregate in flocks of up to 150 and often interact by dancing together as a group. In fact, the cranes have been observed gathering in large numbers to witness a young male and female join in union, dance together and then fly off to mate.