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The Brolga is the only crane endemic to the
Australian region. ·
In the wetter parts of the Atherton Tablelands
district the Brolga is usually found in small numbers among large flocks of
the Sarus Crane. The two species
forage and roost together. ·
In drier parts the Brolga predominates.
Like the Sarus Crane it is absent during the Wet season, when it nests
in marshy lowland districts. ·
The Brolga and other cranes have elaborate
courtship displays. At lesser
intensity such displays occur all year. Birds
often jump a metre into the air with wings outspread, or beat their wings
while taking a few forward steps. ·
Pairs form at 3-4 years of age and become permanent
for life. ·
Sedge tubers are common food items.
Like other cranes they may damage agricultural crops. ·
A well known nocturnal roost site is situated at
Bromfield Swamp near Malanda, where the nightly arrival of Sarus Cranes and
Brolgas during the
Dry season has become a tourist spectacle. |
Chambers Wildlife Rainforest Lodges |