The order Gruiformes encompasses a diverse group of birds commonly known as "cranes and allies," including families such as Gruidae (cranes) and Rallidae (rails and coots).
- Cranes (Gruidae): Tall, elegant birds with stilt-like legs, known for elaborate courtship dances.
- Rails (Rallidae): Mostly small to medium-sized, secretive birds adapted to dense wetlands, some species are excellent swimmers.
Gruiformes are generally characterized by:
- Medium to large body sizes
- Long legs and toes adapted for wading or walking in wetlands
- A diverse range of habitats, mostly associated with water
- Fossil records dating back to the Cretaceous, showing ancient origins
- Approximately 200 species worldwide, many of which are specialists in wetland environments
Cranes (*Gruidae*) and rails (*Rallidae*) are key families in Gruiformes.
Gruiformes are primarily found in wetland habitats.
Gruiformes typically have long legs and toes suited for wetlands.
Gruiformes have fossil records dating back to the Cretaceous.