Sandhill Crane
Antigone pratensis
Least Concern
Tall, elegant gray birds with a distinctive red crown. The Florida subspecies is non-migratory and resident year-round. Commonly seen in suburban settings — golf courses, pastures, and roadside ditches.
Size large
Habitat wetland, grassland
Diet Seeds, insects, small reptiles, frogs, grains
Colors gray, red
Behavior
Mate for life. Perform elaborate dancing displays during courtship. Walk through shallow marshes and grasslands probing for food. Loud, rattling bugle call carries for miles.
⚠️ Safety
Protected by state law. Do not feed or approach — especially during nesting. They can kick and peck aggressively if cornered.
Fun Facts
- The Florida subspecies is one of the world's oldest bird species — fossil records date back 2.5 million years
- Their bugle call can be heard from over a mile away
- Standing 4+ feet tall, they are Florida's tallest flying bird
- Pairs perform synchronized 'unison calling' to strengthen bonds
Identify This Species
Use our Species Identifier to learn how to distinguish the Sandhill Crane from similar species.
