Burchells sandgrouse

Introduction: Burchell's sandgrouse (Pterocles burchelli) is named after the naturalist William Burchell (1778-1863) who explored South Africa between 1811 to 1815. Their habitat range is confined to red Kalahari sands, covered with tall grass mixed with shrubs.

Distribution: The Kalahari Desert and most of north and central Namibia including Etosha National Park

Diet: Forages in pairs or small flocks during the day for seeds.

Description: Medium-sized sandgrouse. Plumages differ slightly between male and female.

Breeding: Usually 3 eggs (not 2) are laid by females in the drier winter months of April to October in a shallow scrape in sandy soil lined with dry plant matter.

Size: 25cm.

Weight: 200g