Burchells courser

Introduction: Burchell's courser (Cursorius rufus) inhabit open, vegetated areas in pairs or family groups occasionally in mixed flocks with Temminck's coursers. They tend to run rather than fly when disturbed, relying on their mixed plumage to assist with camouflage.

Distribution: Central plateau, northern Namib Desert, Etosha National Park, Luderitz and the Orange River.

Diet: A vigilant forager for mostly insects including termites, beetles and ants. Occasionally eats seeds.

Description: Medium-sized courser with a long, decurved bill.

Breeding: No nest is made or used, 1 or 2 eggs are laid on bare ground between February and April or June and November.

Size: 22cm.

Weight: 90g.