The grey crowned crane is about 1 m (3.3 ft) tall and weighs 3.5 kg (7.7 lbs) and a wingspan of 2 m (6.5 ft).
Its body plumage is mainly grey.
The wings are also predominantly white, but contain feathers with a range of colours.
The head has a crown of stiff golden feathers.
The sides of the face are white, and there is a bright red inflatable throat pouch.