Cranes in South Africa

The beautiful blue crane is South Africa's national bird

Among the most spectacular birds of South Africa are the cranes, most easily spotted in wetlands - although the wattled crane is a lucky find as it is extremely uncommon. The beautiful blue crane is South Africa's national bird; the crowned crane is probably the flashiest of the three with its unmistakable prominent crest.

Blue crane

This elegant crane, that stands about one meter high, is almost entirely restricted to South Africa in its distribution. The blue crane is a light blue-grey, has a long neck supporting a rather bulbous head, long legs and elegant wing plumes which sweep to the ground. It eats seeds, insects and reptiles. Blue cranes lay their eggs in the bare veld, often close to water. They are quite common in the Karoo, but are also seen in the grasslands of KwaZulu-Natal and the highveld, usually in pairs or small family parties. The blue crane has a distinctive rattling croak, fairly high-pitched at call, which can be heard from far away. It is, however, usually quiet. The habitat of the blue crane is open grass fields or Karoo-like plains with low shrubby bushes. It likes wet parts and lays its eggs on the ground. It grazes in the field and eats seeds, insects and small reptiles.

Accommodation in and around South Africa

Hartford House accommodation in South Africa
Home to the family of the last prime minister of the Colony of Natal, Hartford House is situated on South Africa’s most famous thoroughbred farm near Giant’s Castle. Chosen by the Rulers of Dubai as the location for their priceless stalli... More

Lavender Hill Country Estate accommodation in South Africa
We offer 10 individually themed rooms, all with airconditioning, electric blanket, dstv, ensuite bath and shower, king size beds, towels, emunities and coffee and tee fascilities. Heated swimming pool available. Our conference fasci... More

My Housy Guest House - Ladybrand accommodation in South Africa
My Housy Bed and Breakfast is dedicated to promote Ladybrand as a booming town with lots of tourist attractions. For our overseas travelers: Bloemfontein is the Capital City of the Free State, and in the center if you look at a map of South Africa. B... More

Kukuzans Lodge accommodation in South Africa
We provide the finest quality hunting and wing shooting in Southern Africa. Our safaris are conducted in the warm fashion South Africans are famous for.Our personalized services include; Big game hunting (Big 5 or Dangerous 6), Plainsgame and Bird... More

The Royal Terrace Guest Lodge accommodation in South Africa
Are you looking for a real classical experience? 30 Km from Clarens and Golden Gate. The Royal Terrace Guest Lodge is a new four star Guest Lodge situated in central Bethlehem in the heart of the Free State. The old sandstone buil... More

The Planes Guest House accommodation in South Africa
The Planes Guesthouse offers seven private en-suite bedrooms with heaters, electric blankets, tea and coffee and television. We are centrally situated and have secure under cover parking and electric gates. Share in our delicious meals prepared b... More

Franshoek Mountain Lodge & Polo School accommodation in South Africa
"The Free State gladdens my heart, no matter what my mood. When I am here I feel that nothing can shut me in, that my thoughts can roam as far as the horizons." - Nelson MandelaFranshoek Mountain Lodge lies in a secluded valley in the heart... More

Fisant, Bokmakierie & Hoephoep accommodation in South Africa
Listen to the distinctive call of the Bokmakierie as it echoes through the crisp, clean air. Atmospere, attention to detail and personal service make Fisant, Bokmakierie and Hoephoep Guest House very specia... More

Engeleni Lodge & Mayfly Cottage accommodation in South Africa
A soul rejuvenating experience and a wonderfully warm welcome awaits you at this destination. Situated on a working dairy farm called Prosper, nestled in the Kamberg Valley, with sweeping, panoramic views of the Ukhahlumba Drakensburg World Heritage ... More

Mountain Splendour Eco-Resort accommodation in South Africa
Mountain Splendour camping and caravanning resort is located in the spectacular Champagne Valley, Central Drakensberg. It is a family owned and operated resort situated on a farm with dramatic views directly facing the towering peaks of Champagne Cas... More

Directory of accommodation in South Africa