CHAPTER XI 



CRANES * 



Among the many groups of birds possessing ornate quali- 

 ties, few are so hardy in captivity, or thrive with such meager 

 care, as that formed by the cranes. It is true that the orna- 

 mental value of these birds is not, as yet, fully recognized 

 in America, although they are kept extensively on European 

 estates; still, large numbers of cranes are brought to this 

 country annually, and there is no doubt that their popularity 

 is steadily increasing. 

 ' Captive cranes are, perhaps, of greatest interest when 



enjoying their liberty on an extensive range; but the avi- 

 culturist who is truly interested in them may wish to con- 

 fine his specimens where they can be kept under closer 

 observation. For this purpose a plot of ground of good 

 size should be selected, and enclosed by a fence which need 

 not exceed five feet in height. The Crane Paddock in the 

 New York Zoological Park is so nearly an ideal home for 

 most of the members of the Society's excellent collection, 

 that a description of it may be of interest. 



The paddock is about 150 feet square, and is surrounded 

 by an ornamental fence, averaging four feet in height. 

 While most of the inmates are pinioned, they can leap this 

 fence easily when alarmed, although they never attempt to 

 do so under ordinary circumstances. The enclosure is well 



I carpeted with grass, which is kept closely cropped during 

 the summer months. A number of large shade trees are 

 included within its limits, besides several clumps of shrubs, 

 * Reproduced from the Zoological Society Bulletin, No. 43, January, 

 J911. By permission of the New York Zoological Society. 

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