Bronze-winged Courser
NameBronze-winged Courser
Common NameBronze-winged Courser
Scientific NameRhinoptilus chalcopterus
FamilyGlareolidae
Wingspan (cm)57.5
Length (cm)27
Weight (g)125
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are sandy-brown to rufous-brown, often with a bronze sheen on the wing coverts. Underparts are white with a broad black band across the upper breast. The head features a white supercilium, a broad black eye-stripe, a chestnut crown, and a white throat. The bill is short, reddish at the base, and black at the tip. Legs are bright red.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a distinctive, mournful, whistling call, often described as 'wee-whio' or 'kwee-kwee-kwee', typically given at night.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal east to Ethiopia and south to South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesDistinctive head pattern (white supercilium, black eye-stripe, chestnut crown), Bright red legs, Brown body with black breast band, Short, reddish-based bill, Nocturnal or crepuscular activity
Description
The Bronze-winged Courser is a medium-sized, terrestrial bird with cryptic brown plumage, striking head markings, and long red legs. It is primarily nocturnal or crepuscular, foraging on the ground for insects in open woodlands and savannas.
