First Welsh-born crane to take to skies in 400 years Published duration 4 October 2016

image copyright RSPB

A Welsh-born common crane has taken to the skies of Wales, for the first time in about 400 years.

The chick, named Garan - the Welsh word for crane - was reared on the Gwent Levels after its parents, known as Lofty and Gibble, nested there earlier this year.

The adults originated from the Great Crane Project , which has been reintroducing the birds to the West Country since 2010.

There are about 160 cranes in the UK.

The 4ft (1.2m) grey bird has a "sonorous call" which can be heard more than three miles (5km) away.

image copyright RSPB

Damon Bridge, RSPB manager of the Great Crane Project, said: "These wonderful birds died out across the UK sometime in the 1600s, having been a favourite of the medieval dinner table.

"Seeing them spread back into their former haunts highlights the importance of protecting our wetlands."