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What Does a Crane Eat?

Published in Animal Behavior 1 min read

Cranes are omnivorous birds, meaning they eat a variety of food sources. Their diet consists of both plant and animal matter.

Plant Matter

  • Seeds: Cranes consume various seeds, including grains, grasses, and legumes. They often forage in fields and wetlands to find these seeds.
  • Fruits: Some crane species enjoy eating fruits, particularly berries and drupes.
  • Roots and Tubers: Cranes occasionally dig up and consume roots and tubers, especially during times of scarcity.

Animal Matter

  • Insects: Cranes will readily eat insects, such as beetles, grasshoppers, and caterpillars.
  • Fish: Some crane species, like the Sandhill Crane, are known to eat fish, particularly smaller fish and tadpoles.
  • Small Mammals: Cranes may also consume small mammals like mice, voles, and shrews.
  • Amphibians and Reptiles: Some cranes will eat frogs, toads, lizards, and snakes.

The specific diet of a crane can vary depending on its species, location, and the availability of food sources.

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