Habitat:
Wetlands, marshes, rice paddies, and deciduous forests of Japan and Eastern Russia

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Japanese Crane is a large migratory bird, recognized for its elegant silhouette and spectacular courtship dances. It stands about 140 cm tall, with a wingspan of 2.4 to 2.8 meters, and weighs between 6 and 10 kg. Its plumage is mainly white, with black feathers on its back and wings, and a distinct red head, which is often featherless. It also has black patches around its eyes. The Japanese Crane primarily inhabits marshes, rice fields, and wetlands in Japan, but it is also found in China and Russia. It mainly feeds on aquatic plants, seeds, small insects, and occasionally small fish. This species is famous for its ritual courtship dances, during which the partners engage in graceful jumps and movements. The Japanese Crane is an endangered species due to habitat loss, pollution, and poaching. Conservation efforts have been made to protect its breeding habitats and resting areas.

Recommended lens:
300 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Japanese crane, a telephoto lens is essential to capture its graceful silhouette and courtship dances. Soft morning or evening light is ideal for beautiful photos. Be patient and discreet, as these birds can be quite sensitive to human disturbance, especially during their breeding season. IUCN status: Endangered. Respect its habitat and minimize disturbance during the breeding season.