Grey Crowned Crane

Who They Are

Teacup: Hatched in 2013, East African (or Grey) Crowned Crane (Balearica regulorum)

Where They Originate

East African Crowned Cranes are found  from eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and Kenya to southeastern South Africa

Their Role at Avian Behavior International

Teacup represents a genus of birds that is largely declining worldwide. East African Crowned Cranes face issues such as resource loss through pesticide and fertilizer, habitat degradation and fragmentation, and human disturbance.

Teacup’s stunning and peaceful presence helps us all to bring our issues to the table and learn what we can do right here to make conscious consumer choices, from the coffee and tea that we drink to the clothes that we wear.

How You Can Meet Her

Teacup flies in the Art of Flight Experience, where you can walk with her and watch her spread her huge wings to soar overhead. There are few other intimate encounters with East African Crowned Cranes that allow a person to experience these birds’ unique character. Guests can also get up close and personal with her during our Exotic Bird Meet and Greet Experience. She is also always part of our Animal Trainer for a Day.

Likes and Dislikes

Likes: Dried mealworms

Dislikes: Teacup doesn’t have too many things in her world to dislike

What You Might Not Know About These Birds

Cranes are born precocial, which means they can get up and walk pretty much right away. This is an important part of their development, as in order to grow their bones properly, they must keep following Mom and Dad Crane, whoever that might be, for several hours a day.

Most cranes have a courtship dance, and Teacup will often display elaborate jumps and feather shakes when she is excited.