Currently, I am on the most northern Island of Japan leading another Hokkaido Photography Tour group. Our first wildlife encounter in Hokkaido was photographing the Red-crowned cranes.

 Red-Crowned Cranes in flight Hokkaido, Japan 

All wildlife species have their own unique characteristics; The Red-crowned cranes are not only elegant, but they are romantics who mate for life and have a lifespan of about 60 years! These birds are are huge standing at 150 - 158cm (4ft - 5ft) tall weighing 8 - 11kg (17 - 25lbs), with a wingspan measuring 200 - 260cm (6.5 - 8.5 ft) WoW. The magnificent Red-crowned cranes are also known as the 'snow ballerina' who perform a graceful courtship dance, they bow to one another than raise their heads towards the sky and call in unison, as they begin their courtship dance!

 Red-Crowned Cranes courtship dance Hokkaido, Japan 

Cranes symbolize longevity, immortality, happiness and good fortune. The red-crowned crane is a protected species and a designated National Treasure Japan.

If you would like to join me to photograph the red-crowned cranes in 2018-2020 CLICK HERE for more information.