The common crane Grus grus is the heraldic bird of Poleski National Park. The species belongs to the order Gruiformes, family Gruidae and genus Grus. Ten species worldwide fall within this genus, of which several are seriously endangered and two are on the brink of extinction. The common crane, also known as the Eurasian crane, is one of the most numerous representatives of its family.

This large bird, although resembling wading birds in appearance, is most closely related to the rail - family Rallidae, which includes coots, birds well-known and common in Polish waters, and bustards from the family Otididae.

Species characterics

The common crane is Poland's tallest bird species. Its height ranges from 100 to 130 cm, the wingspan is between 200 - 240 cm, and weight from 4 - 8 kg. This long-legged, long-necked bird has a small head and a relatively short, grey bill. The crane's eyes are round, brownish-red or yellow. Thy have excellent eyesight, but somewhat poorer hearing in comparison to other birds.

Protection

The following measures are taken to protect cranes:

- protection of the breeding grounds and overnight stays of cranes

- protection of mid-forest bodies of water against drainage

- cessation of drainage of mid-farmland bodies of water

- limitation of plants for hydro-technical development of river valleys

- as far as possible, retention of periodic spring flooding of river valleys

- protection of molting grounds of non-breeding cranes

- protection of areas in which birds gather in post-hatching periods and during migration.