#38-41: Cut-Ring Crane Family
キリワヅル属 (切り輪鶴属, 切輪鶴属)
The first cut-ring crane flies as part of a crane ring, with the fourth cut-ring crane to its left and the second cut-ring crane to its right. Ironically, despite being the leader, it must fly backwards because it faces inward.
The second cut-ring crane flies as part of a crane ring, with the first cut-ring crane to its left and the third cut-ring crane to its right. It’s very good at flying to its left.
The third cut-ring crane flies as part of a crane ring, with the second cut-ring crane to its left and the fourth cut-ring crane to its right. It can see what’s ahead and warns the leader of obstacles approaching.
The fourth cut-ring crane flies as part of a crane ring, with the third cut-ring crane to its left and the first cut-ring crane to its right. It’s very good at flying to its right.
Of course, because of the 4-way symmetry, you can’t actually tell which one is first, second, third, or fourth.
This one requires cutting a + shape in the center that goes almost all the way to the edges but not quite. And then you have to be very careful not to tear the paper while folding 4 cranes, which is the most stressful part. But I did it.