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Grus antigone
The Sarus Crane is classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. The world's tallest flying birds, some of the largest specimens may reach a height of 7 feet with an 8 to 9 foot wing span. Sarus cranes have a life span up to 80 years.
The species is venerated in India and legend has it that the poet Valmiki cursed a hunter for killing a Sarus Crane and was then inspired to write the epic Ramayana. The species was a close contender to the Indian Peafowl as the national bird of India. An Indian 14-seater propeller aircraft, the Saras, is named after this crane.
Spotted on Jun 17, 2012
Submitted on Jun 26, 2012
3 Comments
agree with you Emma,
It has its own beauty,even thought the peacock was chosen!Also very interesting fact about its relationship to the Epic Ramayana.
I am assuming though that it must be tough to live in the wild like Valmiki and witness the daily drama of death and birth that takes place in the wild. Because we are in an urban setting ,we are removed from all the disturbing sights.
Added one more pic and Info,