And the little ones grow up so quickly

At many breeding sites, the chicks have hatched and are now out and about with their parents. Cranes are precocial birds and leave the nest after just one or two days. At first they stay close to the nest, and after two to three weeks they venture out onto the surrounding meadows. By 10 weeks, the young are able to fly and their territories expand.

Growing up fast is vital for survival! To make this rapid growth possible, the young cranes need plenty of energy in the form of animal proteins (insects, larvae, worms, etc.) and lots of rest! The photo of the young birds on the left was taken on 6 May and the one on the right on 22 May 2026.

Photos © Klaus Haase – many thanks!