This enormous crane with its long, white, feathered wattles is unmistakable. Even at a great distance, it can easily be identified by its dark face and crown, and by the white head and neck contrasting with the black underparts.
Juvenile has a white (not grey) crown until a year old.
Upland vleis and marshes and adjoining grassland in the south of its range, extensive wetlands (Okavango, Zambezi Delta) in more tropical regions. Usually found in pairs or small groups, but non-breeding birds sometimes gather in flocks of 50 or more
Seldom calls; a loud 'kwaarnk'.