Madagascar Sandgrouse
NameMadagascar Sandgrouse
Common NameMadagascar Sandgrouse
Scientific NamePterocles personatus
FamilyPteroclidae
Wingspan (cm)58
Length (cm)34
Weight (g)315
Plumage DetailsMales have a distinctive black mask and throat, with a pale yellow-orange breast and belly, and barred grey-brown upperparts. Females and juveniles, like the one pictured, have more extensively barred upperparts and flanks, a buffy-orange breast, and lack the prominent black facial markings of the male. The upperparts are sandy-brown with dark barring.
Vocalization / CallTypically described as a soft, cooing 'whirr-whirr-whirr' or 'churr-churr-churr' call, often given in flight or when approaching water.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to Madagascar, found in the dry western and southern parts of the island.
Identifying Featurescryptic plumage, ground-dwelling, short legs, pointed wings, buffy-orange breast (female/juvenile), barred upperparts (female/juvenile), black facial mask (male)
Description
The Madagascar Sandgrouse is a medium-sized, ground-dwelling bird endemic to Madagascar. It exhibits cryptic plumage, allowing it to blend into its dry, open habitats. Like other sandgrouse, it is known for its ability to carry water to its young.
