Common Cranes

Cranes disappeared from this country over 400 years ago, but following a reintroduction programme, they are making a comeback. I believe the best place to see them is Norfolk, but I photographed this pair at Slimbridge in Gloucestershire. The birds are over 4 ft tall. 

There are two main reasons for their original disappearance: habitat loss and hunting. I've read that over 100 cranes were served at Henry 11's Christmas feast. 

Distant shots but blippable, I think.