The downy brown chick could be held in the palm of a hand while the adults are approximately four feet tall with very long, sharp beaks and stunning blue-grey plumage. Like all cranes, the Stanley crane is a most elegant bird. Cranes are usually found in wetlands, which are one of the world's most endangered habitats. The chick at Marwell is the result of artificial insemination. Marwell curators are very pleased that this process has resulted in a successful outcome.
Cranes have long legs for wading through vegetation and water.
The courtship ritual of cranes is usually a spectacular dance. The Stanley cranes create a very loud harsh cry in defence of their territory and their chick.