Pterocles bicinctus
Double-banded Sandgrouse inhabit open, dry woodlands, savannas and arid grasslands, often in association with low, rocky hills, and is especially fond of mopane savanna. These rather plump birds (26cm long, weigh up to 270g) are often seen on or beside gravel roads, freezing in their tracks in the hope that they’ll escape detection. They feed exclusively on seeds, and drink daily, usually just before sunset. They are usually encountered in family groups numbering 2 to 5 and only rarely in bigger groups of up to 10.
Breeding in this species peaks during the dry season, though breeding attempts have been recorded throughout the year. Pairs are monogamous and use a shallow scrape in soil, gravel or sand, lined with dry grass and leaves, as a nest. The nest is usually hidden among tufts of grass or under bushes, but is often quite exposed. Clutches contain 2-3 eggs and are incubated by both parents for little over 3 weeks.
Despite being common and widespread over southern Africa, and considered of least concern by the IUCN, the Double-banded Sandgrouse population is at risk of decreasing due to habitat loss. In South Africa, this species can be found in the Lowveld, western Limpopo, and parts of the North West and Northern Cape Provinces.
These Grouses look similar to the Prairie Grouse in the Western parts of the US.
LikeLike
I think the superficial similarity to the grouses in the northern hemisphere is exactly how these birds got their common name, Hien, but they are not from closely related families.
LikeLike
The male is very beautiful, the female also of course, but as 95% of all bird species have female camouflage colors. What I wonder is if the chicks is in so open terrain, or it was just when you shoot it it was in such a open place? They seems to be very vulnerably.
LikeLiked by 1 person
We were lucky to see the family cross a gravel road, John. As soon as the chicks made it into the grass and dead leaves at the roadside they disappeared instantly!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Beautiful camouflage patterns, Dries, I think this bird really needs it as it doesn’t seem to have many other options when in danger?
LikeLiked by 1 person
They are actually quite strong flyers, Maurice, but are reluctant to take to the wing, especially when they have chicks.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s surprising, as they just appeared quite stocky ground-dwellers Dries
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ai dis ‘n mooi voëltjie…die kuikentjie is te dierbaar! Pragtige pos,Dries.
LikeLiked by 1 person
As die piepklein dingetjie nie in die pad gesit het nie sou ons hom nooit gesien het nie!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I couldn’t even see them, what wonderful camouflage! pretty little birds, love the yellow eye patch 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
They’re excellent at hiding in plain sight, Teresa, and the little ones even more so!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Handsome fellow!!
janet
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ll pass your compliment to him next time I see one, Janet!
LikeLike
I’m sure he’ll be thrilled.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow, is right!
LikeLike
Thanks very much, Rebel Girl, and welcome here!
LikeLiked by 1 person
As I opened your blog and saw this great photo, i said to myself, “Oh WOW!” That is often my response when I view the nature you share on your blog. Thanks.
LikeLike
So very kind of you, thanks Patti!
LikeLike