The Namaqua Sandgrouse, 'Pterocles namaqua', is a medium-sized sandgrouse endemic to the arid and semi-arid regions of southern Africa. It is characterized by its distinctive plumage, with males displaying a prominent black belly patch and a white throat.
Where to spot
Widespread across southern Africa, particularly in Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa, favoring sparse grasslands, savannas, and deserts.
How to spot
Look for them on open, stony plains, short grasslands, and near water sources. They are often found in large, noisy flocks flying low to the ground. Listen for their 'chuk-chuk-chuk' call in flight.
When to spot
Best observed during early morning and late afternoon when they converge at watering holes. They are resident birds, so observations are possible throughout the year.
Where to spot
Widespread across southern Africa, particularly in Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa, favoring sparse grasslands, savannas, and deserts.
How to spot
Look for them on open, stony plains, short grasslands, and near water sources. They are often found in large, noisy flocks flying low to the ground. Listen for their 'chuk-chuk-chuk' call in flight.
When to spot
Best observed during early morning and late afternoon when they converge at watering holes. They are resident birds, so observations are possible throughout the year.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Namaqua Sandgrouse chicks are independent soon after hatching, feeding themselves from the ground, but they still rely on their parents for water carried in specialized belly feathers.
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