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An understanding of the biology, ecology, and status of cranes is fundamental to the success of efforts to conserve them and the ecosystems within which they exist. Fortunately, cranes have drawn sustained attention from scientists and conservationists around the world. Walkinshaw (1973) and Johnsgard (1983) provide detailed reviews of crane biology and ecology. The species accounts in Section 2 provide summaries of recent research and conservation activities for each species, as well as additional literature sources for those seeking further information. This section focuses on the cranes at the family level, highlights contrasts among the species, and reviews the status of and threats to the family as a whole.

This section is adapted from text prepared for the Handbook of the Birds of the World: Volume 3 (del Hoyo, J. and Elliot, A., eds. In prep. Lynx Editions and the ICBP, Barcelona). Section 1.5, “Conservation Status,” was prepared based on the new categories and criteria as delineated in the IUCN Red List Categories (IUCN 1994). Section 1.8, “Captive Propagation and Reintroduction,” was prepared by Claire Mirande of the International Crane Foundation in consultation with members of the Crane Specialist Group.