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.
