Demoiselle Crane in Mongolia

 A young Demoiselle Crane, Mongolia

postmarked within the US with a 32 cent stamp

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The Demoiselle Crane, is a species of crane found in central Eurasia, ranging from the Black Sea to Mongolia and North Eastern China.

These cranes are migratory birds with one of the toughest migrations in the world. In late August through September, they gather in flocks of up to 400 individuals and prepare for their flight to their winter range. During their migratory flight south, Demoiselles fly reaching altitudes of 16,000-26,000 feet (4,875-7,925 m). Along their difficult journey they have to cross the Himalayan mountains to get to their over-wintering grounds in India, many die from fatigue, hunger and predation from birds such as eagles. At their wintering grounds, Demoiselles have been observed flocking with Common Cranes, their combined totals reaching up to 20,000 individuals.  In March and April, they begin their long spring journey back to their northern nesting grounds.

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Here is a postcard of these birds as adults ...

Demoiselle cranes, the world's smallest

(Mongolia)

postmarked within the USA with a 32 cent stamp in 2012