Cape Spurfowl
NameCape Spurfowl
Common NameCape Spurfowl
Scientific NamePternistis capensis
FamilyPhasianidae
Wingspan (cm)50
Length (cm)44
Weight (g)650
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly dark grey-brown with fine white scaling across the body, creating a mottled or barred appearance. The head is darker, and the bill is dark with a distinctive reddish-orange base to the lower mandible. Legs are dark red.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its loud, raucous, and cackling call, often described as a 'kak-kak-kak-kak' series, typically given at dawn and dusk.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the southwestern Cape region of South Africa, from Namaqualand south to the Cape Peninsula and east to the Eastern Cape.
Identifying FeaturesScaly grey-brown plumage, Dark head, Reddish-orange base to lower mandible, Dark red legs, Loud cackling call
Description
The Cape Spurfowl is a medium-sized, ground-dwelling game bird endemic to the southwestern Cape of South Africa. It is characterized by its distinctive scaly grey-brown plumage and is often found foraging in pairs or small groups in various habitats.
