12 differences between graceful Cranes and Majestic Swans

Cranes and Swans are both large majestic and beautiful birds. They belong to different families and have distinct characteristic features. Here are 10 key differences between them.

1. Family:

Cranes belong to the family Gruidae, while swans belong to the family Anatidae

2. Size:

Swans are significantly larger and more robust. Some of the species weigh over 15 kg and their wings may exceed 3 metres. Cranes are slender and lighter. They have longer legs relative to their body size.

3. Neck:

Cranes have a more angular posture with a straightened neck. Swans have an S- shaped neck and that curves gracefully.

4. Legs and feet:

Cranes have long legs and toes adapted for wading and walking. Swans have shorter legs they have web feet for swimming.

5. Feathers:

Cranes have a more mottled or uniform plumage while swans often have grey, brown or white with the colored patches on the plumage.

6. Migration:

Many crane species are migratory while some swan species are partial migrants or resident birds.

7. Habitat:

Cranes prefer wetlands grasslands and open areas, on the other hand swans inhabit aquatic environments like lakes, rivers and ponds.

8. Diet:

Cranes are omnivorous in nature. They eat wide range of plants, insects and small animals whereas swans are herbivorous. They mostly feed on aquatic plants and vegetation.

9. Nesting:

Cranes build nests on the ground or in vegetation area. Swans build nest on water or near water, often using vegetation and mud.

10. Behavior:

Swans are famous for their graceful swimming and gliding. Cranes are known for their dancing display and loud trumpeting calls. Swans are stronger swimmers and are more aquatic, while cranes are better adapted to walking and weeding in shallow water.

11. Beak shape:

Cranes have a pointed dagger like beaks, while swans have a broad flat beak with a distinctive orange or black knob.

12. Symbolism:

Swans often symbolize love, beauty and fidelity, while cranes are symbols of longevity, good fortune and wisdom in many cultures.