Black-bellied Bustard
NameBlack-bellied Bustard
Common NameBlack-bellied Bustard
Scientific NameLissotis melanogaster
FamilyOtididae
Wingspan (cm)95
Length (cm)56.5
Weight (g)1625
Plumage DetailsMales have a glossy black belly, throat, and breast, sharply contrasted by a white band on the side of the breast and white underwing coverts. The back and wings are finely vermiculated brown and buff. The head and neck are pale greyish-brown with a black line from the eye and a black patch on the lower throat. Females are duller, with buffy-white underparts mottled with dark markings.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive, explosive 'pop' or 'plop' call, often given during display flights or from the ground. It can also produce a series of croaking or guttural notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Gambia east to Ethiopia and Somalia, and south to South Africa.
Identifying Featuresblack belly (males), finely vermiculated brown upperparts, pale greyish-brown head and neck with black markings, long legs, distinctive 'pop' call
Description
This medium-sized bustard is characterized by its striking black underparts and finely vermiculated brown upperparts. It typically inhabits open grasslands and savannas, often seen foraging for insects and seeds. The male is known for its distinctive 'pop' call, often given during display.
