BIRD #25 OF 45

Brolga

The Brolga is Australia’s largest flying bird and is famous for its elegant courtship dances. These graceful cranes leap, bow and spread their wings in spectacular displays that strengthen pair bonds.

You’ll often spot them in wetlands, floodplains and open grasslands, usually in pairs or family groups.

  • HABITAT

    Wetlands, floodplains, grasslands

  • CONSERVATION STATUS

    Least Concern (LC)

  • LOCATION

    WA, NT, QLD, NSW, VIC

  • HOW TO SPOT IT

    🩶 Tall grey crane with long legs and a long neck
    🔴 Distinctive red patch on the head
    ⚫ Long, pointed bill and trailing legs in flight
    🌾 Often seen wading through shallow wetlands or open grasslands

  • DID YOU KNOW?

    Brolgas perform one of Australia’s most spectacular courtship displays, leaping into the air, tossing grass and twigs, and dancing together - even outside the breeding season.