Hartlaub's Bustard
NameHartlaub's Bustard
Common NameHartlaub's Bustard
Scientific NameLissotis hartlaubii
FamilyOtididae
Wingspan (cm)100
Length (cm)57.5
Weight (g)1750
Plumage DetailsMales have a black face and throat, a white stripe extending from behind the eye down the side of the neck, and a grey crown. The upperparts are sandy-brown to grey-brown, finely vermiculated with black, creating a speckled pattern. The underparts are predominantly black, with a prominent white patch on the flanks/wing coverts. Females are duller, lacking the strong black and white head/neck pattern, and are generally more mottled brown.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a deep, resonant 'wum-wum-wum' or 'hoo-hoo-hoo' call, often given at dawn or dusk. They also produce harsh alarm calls.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, savanna
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in East Africa, including Ethiopia, Somalia, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and South Sudan.
Identifying FeaturesBlack face and throat (male), White stripe on neck (male), Speckled brown upperparts, Black belly with white flank patch, Upright posture, Long, pale legs
Description
Hartlaub's Bustard is a medium-sized bustard found in East Africa, characterized by its upright posture and striking plumage. Males display a distinctive black and white head and neck pattern, contrasting with speckled brown upperparts and black underparts. They are typically shy, ground-dwelling birds of open grasslands.
