the cranes dance
Well-known dance
The dance of the crane is usually performed by young cranes during the spring migration.
Light on their feet
The dance begins with quick bobbing motions. The great wings are extended, and the birds spin around. They run a short distance, leap into the air, then pluck stones or twigs and toss them into the air.
Red signal
On the back of the crane's crown is a red spot with no feathers. When excited, while dancing for example, blood flows into that area and it becomes deep red. The function is not known, but is probably some kind of signal among the birds.
Why the dance?
The function of the dance is also poorly understood. It is most commonly performed by young cranes that have yet to form mating pairs. This suggests that the dance may have something to do with the formation of pairs. When an established pair dance, perhaps it is a way of strengthening the bonds between the cranes.
