Crested Francolin
NameCrested Francolin
Common NameCrested Francolin
Scientific NameOrtygornis sephaena
FamilyPhasianidae
Wingspan (cm)50
Length (cm)32.5
Weight (g)350
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly brown with distinctive white barring and spotting across the back, breast, and flanks. It features a prominent dark brown crest, a striking white supercilium (eyebrow stripe), and a dark eye-stripe. The underparts are paler, often buffy-white, and the legs are reddish.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a loud, ringing series of notes, often described as 'kwa-kwa-kwa-kwa' or 'chick-chick-chick-chick', which accelerates into a cackle. It is frequently given from a low perch or from the ground.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in eastern and southern Africa, its range extends from Ethiopia and Somalia south through Kenya, Tanzania, and Zambia to Botswana, Zimbabwe, and northeastern South Africa.
Identifying Featuresprominent dark crest, white supercilium, barred brown and white plumage, reddish legs
Description
A medium-sized francolin characterized by its distinctive dark crest and intricately barred plumage. This ground-dwelling bird is typically found foraging in dense bushland and savannas, often in pairs or small groups, where it feeds on a variety of plant matter and invertebrates.
