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28-5-2019 SOMALISA CAMP, ZIMBABWE - NATAL SPURFOWL (Pternistis natalensis)
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The Natal spurfowl is a medium-sized brownish francolin with a distinctive appearance, including a scaled (marbled) appearance on its underparts and a lack of bare skin around the eyes and throat. It is commonly found in savannas and woodlands, where it nests in a shallow ground scrape. This species is known for its loud, raucous "kak-kreek" call and its diet of roots, seeds, insects, and fruit.
Physical characteristics
Appearance: Mottled brown back, with a distinctive scaled pattern on the underparts caused by brown and white-edged feathers.
Bill and legs: Bright orange-red bill and legs.
Head: Lacks bare skin around the eyes and throat, a key distinguishing feature from other spurfowl species.
Sexes: Both sexes have similar plumage, but males are heavier and have longer leg spurs.
Juveniles: Similar to adults, but with duller legs and bill.
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Habitat and behavior
Habitat: Prefers savanna, but also found in coastal forests, woodlands, and areas with dense understory. It prefers areas with tall trees and shrubby undergrowth.
Activity: Most active in the early morning and late afternoon, when males often call.
Nesting: Creates a shallow ground scrape lined with grass and some feathers, typically in a well-concealed spot under dense scrub.
Eggs: Lays between 4 and 8 creamy-colored eggs, with a 21-day incubation period.
Diet
Primarily subsists on roots, tubers, seeds, and beans.
Opportunistically eats insects like termites and ants, as well as flowers and fallen fruit.
Other facts
Call: A loud, raucous "kak-kreek" sound.
Conservation status: The species is considered abundant to locally common and is suspected to have a stable population, though it is sometimes threatened by over-hunting.
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