South Africa's Graceful Symbol In South Africa's golden grassland, Where ancient winds sweep cross the land, The blue crane stands with regal grace, South Africa's bird in honored place. With slate-blue plumage, long and lean, The most elegant sight you've ever seen. Not truly blue but silver-grey, These cranes dance through the light of day. Their trailing feathers, black and long, Flow like ribbons as they throng. Four feet tall on slender legs, For wetland homes their spirit begs. In courtship season, watch them prance, The blue crane's celebrated dance. They bow and leap with wings spread wide, While calling to their chosen bride. Their trumpeting calls ring clear and true, Across the veld of morning dew. Once common through the southern plains, Now only fifteen thousand remain. Farming, power lines, and drought Have pushed these noble birds about. In Karoo's heart they make their stand, Protected by a caring land. The national bird of rainbow nation, Symbol of peace and transformation. On coat of arms they proudly fly, Beneath South Africa's endless sky. May future children always see These cranes dance wild and proud and free.