Sandhill Crane vs Whooping Crane

The Sandhill Crane and Whooping Crane can be distinguished by their plumage and size. The Whooping Crane is larger and predominantly white with black wingtips, while the Sandhill Crane is gray with a red crown. Both species have similar habitats and behaviors, but their vocalizations differ.

Look for the Whooping Crane's white body and black wingtips in flight, contrasting with the Sandhill Crane's overall gray plumage. Note the size difference, with the Whooping Crane being noticeably taller. Listen for the Sandhill's rolling call versus the Whooping's trumpeting sound. In mixed flocks, the Whooping Crane's bright white plumage stands out.

The Whooping Crane is larger than the Sandhill Crane, standing up to 1.5 meters tall compared to the Sandhill's 1.2 meters.

The Sandhill Crane is mostly gray with a distinctive red crown, while the Whooping Crane is primarily white with black wingtips and a red crown and face.

Both species are often seen in pairs or small groups and exhibit similar foraging behaviors, such as probing in wetlands and fields.

Both cranes inhabit wetlands, but the Whooping Crane is more dependent on coastal and inland freshwater wetlands, especially during winter.

The Sandhill Crane has a distinctive, rolling 'kar-r-r-o-o-o' call, while the Whooping Crane's call is a loud, trumpeting sound.