Denham's Bustard
NameDenham's Bustard
Common NameDenham's Bustard
Scientific NameNeotis denhami
FamilyOtididae
Wingspan (cm)140
Length (cm)95
Weight (g)6500
Plumage DetailsThe head and neck are pale greyish-buff with distinctive black stripes running from the lores through the eye and a black crown. Upperparts are sandy brown, while the underparts are white. The wings are dark brown with prominent white patches on the primaries and secondaries, clearly visible in flight and partially at rest. Males exhibit a large, fluffy white throat and upper breast area, which can be inflated into a display pouch.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but males produce a deep, booming 'whoom-whoom-whoom' call during display. They may also emit a harsh croak when alarmed.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeFound in disjunct populations across sub-Saharan Africa, including West Africa (Senegal to Cameroon), East Africa (Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania), and Southern Africa (Angola, Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa).
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Long legs, Buffy neck, Black and white striped head, Prominent white throat pouch in displaying males, Distinctive black and white wing pattern
Description
A large, terrestrial bird found in African grasslands and savannas. Males are notably larger than females and possess a striking inflatable white throat pouch used during courtship displays. They are generally shy but can be seen foraging for a varied diet on open ground.
