Bengal Florican
NameBengal Florican
Common NameBengal Florican
Scientific NameHoubaropsis bengalensis
FamilyOtididae
Wingspan (cm)120
Length (cm)67
Weight (g)1750
Plumage DetailsAdult males in breeding plumage have a glossy black head, neck, and underparts, contrasting sharply with large white patches on the wings (primaries and secondaries are black-tipped). The back and tail are mottled brown. Females and non-breeding males are buff-brown with dark streaking on the crown and back, and paler underparts, lacking the prominent white wing patches.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but males produce a deep, croaking or booming call during their display flights, often described as 'chik-chik-chik' or 'tock-tock-tock'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland
Conservation Statuscritically-endangered
Geographic RangeFound in disjunct populations across the Terai grasslands of Nepal and northern India, and in parts of Cambodia and Vietnam. Its range has significantly contracted due to habitat loss.
Identifying Featuresmale's striking black and white plumage, tall grassland habitat, upright posture, elaborate display flight (males)
Description
The Bengal Florican is a large bustard primarily found in tall grasslands. Males exhibit striking black and white breeding plumage, while females are cryptically colored buff-brown. They are known for their elaborate aerial display flights during the breeding season.
