The story of how the crane got its crown is told according to African legend. While hunting, a chief once became lost and quickly became weak from dehydration. He asked several passing animals if they would help him, but all refused because he had hunted them. Finally a flock of cranes flew by and agreed to help, bringing him water and leading him to his court. As a thank-you, the chief called upon the court magician to give them each a gold crown. And from where the magician touched them, sprouted beautiful crowns of golden feathers.