Namaqua sandgrouse

Introduction: Namaqua sandgrouse (Pterocles namaqua) were as the name suggests, first discovered in the region of Namaqualand. Typical habitats include shrubland with or without grass, areas of sandy savannah with thick vegetation and gravel desert and sandy semi-desert.

Distribution: Common throughout Namibia less for true southern Namib Desert. Found in Etosha, Skeleton Coast, Orange River, Fish River Canyon and Caprivi.

Diet: Small hard seeds and at times fresh leaves, flowers and small fruits.

Description: Medium-sized sandgrouse with vertically streaked dark brown and buff head and upper breast.

Breeding: Usually 2 or 3 eggs are laid in an open scape in the ground, filled with grit and plant matter to assist in the incubation period of 21 days.

Size: 28cm.

 Weight: 185g.