Black-bellied bustard
Birds of Namibia
Introduction: Black-bellied bustards (Lissotis melanogaster) inhabit regions of hilly and flat ground with grassy savannah and tall dense grassland. A feature of their behaviour is to lie flat when disturbed to evade detection.
Distribution: Etosha, Waterberg National Park, Otavi, Grootfontein and Tsumeb region, Caprivi Strip.
Diet: Locusts, beetles and grasshoppers are pecked and eaten whilst walking.
Description: Medium-sized bustard with long, thin necks and long legs. Lissotis is the Latin word for a 'smooth bustard'. Melanogaster is the Greek word for 'black belly'.
Breeding: Females lay 1 or 2 eggs directly on the ground amongst tall grass. Incubation takes 23 days.
Size: 65cm. Weight: 2.3kg. Males are larger than females.

Situated north-east of Grootfontein this serves as an gateway between the Caprivi and central Namibia

Around 80km north of Grootfontein this lodge acts as a gateway to Namibia's north east (the Kavango & Zambezi Region)

A satellite camp to Fiume Lodge, the Bush Camp requires a minimum two night stay and is the base for top quality guided excursions to visit a local Bushman / San community

Ten kilometers outside of Otavi this lodge offers a relaxing environment and is ideal for walkers, wildlife enthusiasts and birders

Initially a Christian mission station this property was converted into a lodge in 1999. The Ghaub caves are an excellent opportunity to get dirty while exploring a fascinating cave system - the lodge provides a guide and necessary equipment

Horse riding, game and beautiful surroundings are just some of the reasons to stay at this lodge

A courtyard atmosphere, traditional garden and German cuisine can be found at this Tsumeb hotel.

Close encounters of the wild side - experience the Namibian veld on foot with Bruno, an enigmatic & knowledgeable guide

a campsite in a rural setting 80km north of Grootfontein on the main road towards Rundu & the Zambezi Region

An eclectic lodge, allows for visits to a San community as well as offering reasonably priced overnight accommodation