The grey crowned crane (Balearica regulorum) is the national bird of Uganda. Its range stretches from the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and Kenya to southeastern South Africa. They are non-migratory, but undertake variable local and seasonal movements, and are most abundant in Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. Males tend to be marginally larger than females but are otherwise indistinguishable. The Grey Crowned Crane frequents wetlands and open grasslands, savannahs and cultivated areas.This crane feeds on seed heads of sedges and the fresh parts of the grasses. It may uproot some plants, and sometimes stamps feet when searching for invertebrates and small preys such as insects, frogs and lizards on the ground. It has a bright red gular sac underneath its chin. It is similar to the Black Crowned Crane, except the pale grey neck contrasting with the darker body. Unlike other cranes, crowned cranes usually roost in trees.
