kurki

Kurki is the Finnish name for cranes, a group of large, long-legged wading birds in the family Gruidae. The term covers several crane species found in the Northern Hemisphere, most notably the common crane (Grus grus) and the red-crowned crane (Grus japonensis). Cranes are characterized by tall bodies, long necks and legs, and broad wings. Many species perform elaborate courtship displays that include bowing, jumping, and wing-stroking.

Distribution and habitat

Cranes inhabit a range of wetlands, including marshes, swamps, river valleys, and lake shores, as well as agricultural fields during foraging. They breed in temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and North America and often migrate seasonally to warmer areas. Because of their reliance on wetlands, crane populations are closely linked to the status of wetland habitats, which are affected by drainage, development, and climate conditions.

Behavior and diet

Cranes are generally social, especially outside the breeding season. They feed on a mixed diet that includes plant matter such as seeds and tubers, along with insects, small vertebrates, and other invertebrates. They are vocal birds, with trumpeting calls used for communication within flocks and during flight. Courtship and pair bonding are important aspects of crane behavior, and many species form long-term pairs.

Reproduction and protection

Cranes typically nest on the ground in tall vegetation or shallow water, laying usually one to two eggs. Both parents incubate and raise the young, which are precocial. Conservation status varies by species; several cranes face habitat loss and other threats, leading to protection efforts, habitat restoration, and international cooperation to support migratory routes and breeding sites.