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Sandhill Crane

Sandhill Crane

Antigone canadensis

About the Sandhill Crane

The Sandhill Crane (Antigone canadensis) is a species documented in our database. Learn more about this species through the information below.

Conservation Status

Sandhill Crane is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Population Trend

stable

Current Threats

  • Habitat loss and fragmentation
  • Climate change
  • Hunting and poaching

Photo Gallery

5 photos available

Geographic Distribution

Distribution by Region

Western Canada

Continent: North America
Country: Canada
Region: British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan

Western United States

Continent: North America
Country: United States
Region: California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana

Central Plains

Continent: North America
Country: United States
Region: Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota

Distribution Overview

The Sandhill Crane is a migratory species, spending the summer months in Canada and the western United States, and the winter months in the southern United States and Mexico.

Quick Facts

Size
80 - 120 cm
Weight
2.5 - 6 kg
Lifespan
up to 20-30 years years
Diet
Grains (corn, wheat, oats)Insects (grasshoppers, crickets, beetles)Small animals (mice, frogs, snakes)Fruits and berries

Habitat

WetlandsGrasslandsAgricultural areasTundras

Behavior

  • Migrates in large flocks, often with other crane species
  • Forages for food in wetlands, grasslands, and agricultural areas
  • Engages in elaborate courtship displays, involving dancing and calling
  • Forms long-term monogamous pairs, with pairs staying together for many years
  • Nests on the ground, using vegetation to construct a nest cup