The nest is normally built in tall grass for protection. The adults use their yellow crowns as camouflage in the tall, yellow African grasses. Incubation is done by both sexes for about 30 days. Chicks are somewhat independent from hatching, being completely mobile at only 2 days of age. Both adults provide protection and feed the chicks small insects that are flushed out by stomping their feet in tall grass.
Chicks are easy to hand rear and it is usually quite successful.
Even though hand-reared offspring are healthy and well adjusted to zoo life, they lack the aspects of natural behavior that are learned from the parents, especially breeding behavior, displays and vocalizations. We therefore choose to parent-rear all crane chicks whenever possible. Seeing parents with offspring provides an exciting experience for visitors and staff, allowing them to witness one of nature's finest moments first hand. Accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association . Member of the American Association of Botanical Gardens and Arboreta .