This is the Common Crane (Grus grus), a large, stately crane belonging to the family Gruidae (the crane family).

Adults measure approximately 100–130 cm in length, with a wingspan of 180–240 cm, and a weight generally between 3–6 kg, though larger individuals may reach up to 7 kg. In plumage the body is mostly slate‑grey; the head shows a blackish forehead and lores (the area between the eyes and bill) with a bare red crown patch, and a white streak extending from behind the eyes down toward the mantle (upper back). The legs are long and dark, the neck long, and when flying the legs extend well behind the body. The call is a loud, trumpeting “krooo–krooo” which can carry over considerable distance.

Location:
The Common Crane breeds across much of northern and central Europe and into the Palearctic region (including Russia and Siberia). Many populations migrate to wintering grounds in southern Europe, northern Africa and parts of Asia. It favours wetlands, marshes, bogs, shallow lakes and flooded meadows for breeding, and during migration or winter often uses farmland and open fields.

Average Size:
Length: ~100–130 cm. Wingspan: ~180–240 cm. Weight: ~3–6 kg.

Family:
Gruidae (cranes)

Species:
Grus grus

Ecological Role:
The Common Crane is broadly omnivorous: it eats plant matter (roots, tubers, seeds, shoots) and animal prey (insects, snails, small vertebrates) depending on season and availability. It can forage in shallow water or on land, and may help in seed‑dispersal and in controlling invertebrate populations in wetland ecosystems. During migration, large flocks display collective natural behaviour, and wintering in agricultural fields can assist in leftover grain removal.

Movement and Behaviour:
Many populations are strongly migratory: after breeding they depart for warmer regions, then return north in spring. Outside the breeding season they can gather in large flocks. Pairs perform an elaborate courtship dance (jumping, wing‑flapping, bowing) which strengthens the pair bond.

Reproduction & Eggs:
Nests are usually built on the ground in or near shallow water, often among dense vegetation (reeds, sedges). A typical clutch contains 2 eggs, though occasionally 1 or rarely 3 are laid. The eggs are laid at short intervals. Incubation lasts about 30 days and is shared by both parents, with the female often contributing more. The eggs are greenish, sometimes green‑blue, blotched or speckled with brown or olive markings, providing camouflage. Hatching is often asynchronous (eggs hatch at different times), and chicks are precocial (relatively mature at hatching) and fledge typically after about 65 days, though this may vary. The nest platform is made of vegetation and may be reused for years if the site remains suitable.

Conservation Status:
Globally assessed as Least Concern. Local populations may be vulnerable to habitat loss, wetland drainage, unstable water levels and disturbance at breeding sites.

Collection Date:
This specimen was collected on the 15th of April 1891 in Pomerania.