The red-crowned crane is a large, elegant bird known for its striking appearance and graceful movements. It features a distinctive red patch on its head, which gives it its name, and long legs that allow it to wade through shallow waters. These cranes are primarily found in East Asia, particularly in Japan, China, and Korea. Red-crowned cranes are migratory birds, often traveling long distances between their breeding and wintering grounds. They are known for their elaborate courtship dances, which involve jumping and bowing. These cranes are also considered a symbol of longevity and good fortune in many cultures, particularly in Japanese folklore.