At Terra Natura Benidorm we have created a new environmental enrichment for Japanese cranes (Grus japonensis) in recognition of the Olympic Games celebration, which are taking place during these days in the Japanese country. On a daily basis, our zoo keepers will provide them with a special feed in the water inside the pond.

Through this enrichment, the Japanese cranes will be encouraged to develop their agility to observe as they are used to scrutinizing and checking the floor in search of food, as well as water ponds to catch beetles, frogs and even some water snake. The new environmental enrichment will run until the end of the Tokyo Olympics on August 8^th.

Japanese cranes live in the Asian area of ​​Terra Natura Benidorm. It is a species that is protected and is in danger of extinction, which is why it is in Annex I of CITES where the most sensitive or most threatened species are included. Currently, the nature park has two three-year-old specimens, a female and a male that arrived in February 2020.

These birds are known for the faithful behaviour that they have with their mate. Once they choose their partner, the relationship is preserved for life. In fact, when one of the members of the couple dies, the other specimen will never mate again. In Asian culture, seeing these cranes is considered a sign of good luck and fidelity in love.

This symbolism is especially present in Japan, to the point that its flag (a red circle on a white background) corresponds to the colours that the crane itself has: the red forehead and the white body plumage. These birds hold the record for flying in height reaching 9,800 metres of altitude. They can also fly big distances thanks to the powerful muscles of their wings.