The crane was first spotted by farmer Iain Mackenzie last week. In recent days the rarity flies between a low-lying dried out bog by Steinish as well as the North Street crofters common pasture. It feeds on leaves, roots, insects and field mice.
Western Isles RSPB officer Martin Scott said: "This is a very special visitor. The common crane was last seen in 1906 around the Stornoway area.
"Normally it would breed. But up here it is all alone enjoying the good weather. It is creating lots of local excitement."
The common crane is larger than the grey heron which many islanders observe feeding at low tide in Stornoway harbour.
The common crane became extinct in the UK in the 17th century though there is an attempt to re-establish them in Norfolk.
It is though that the Lewis visitor has badly lost its sense of direction when flying from Spain to its summer ground in Scandinavia and Russia.
It has taken up residence around Melbost farm and its favourite feeding spot is a recently sown field neighbouring the runway at Stornoway airport.
When alert, the timid tall bird stretches out its long neck to achieve its full two-yard height looking much like an ostrich particularly with its plume of black feathers.
It flies off in graceful flight when observers come within 600 metres extending its huge three yard wingspan. The the roar of planes taking off just metres away does not seem to faze it.
