Black-bellied Sandgrouse
NameBlack-bellied Sandgrouse
Common NameBlack-bellied Sandgrouse
Scientific NamePterocles orientalis
FamilyPteroclidae
Wingspan (cm)65
Length (cm)36
Weight (g)350
Plumage DetailsMale plumage includes a greyish head, an orange-buff throat patch bordered by a thin black line, a broad black band across the chest, and a solid black belly. The upperparts are sandy-brown with intricate darker mottling and barring, providing excellent camouflage. Females are generally duller and more heavily mottled.
Vocalization / CallA distinctive, far-carrying 'chuck-choo-choo' or 'kattar-kattar' call, often given in flight.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across southern Europe (Iberian Peninsula, parts of France, Italy, Greece), North Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia, extending east to India and Pakistan.
Identifying FeaturesBlack belly, Distinct black chest band (male), Orange throat patch (male), Sandy-brown cryptic plumage, Ground-dwelling behavior
Description
This medium-sized sandgrouse is well-camouflaged in its arid habitat. Males feature a grey head, an orange throat patch, and a prominent black band across the chest, contrasting with a black belly. They are ground-dwelling birds known for their long flights to watering holes.
