Moorland Francolin
NameMoorland Francolin
Common NameMoorland Francolin
Scientific NameScleroptila psilolaema
FamilyPhasianidae
Wingspan (cm)45
Length (cm)35
Weight (g)425
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly dark brown with intricate buff and black barring across the upperparts and flanks, creating a scaled appearance. The throat is notably pale, often whitish or buff, contrasting with a dark crown and a dark stripe through the eye, bordered by a pale supercilium. The bill is dark, and legs are yellowish-brown.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a series of loud, ringing, and often accelerating calls, typically described as a repetitive 'kwa-kwa-kwa-kwa-kwa' or 'kek-kek-kek-kek-kek' sound.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, grassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThis species is endemic to the East African highlands, primarily found in the mountainous regions of Kenya, Uganda, and Ethiopia.
Identifying FeaturesCryptic brown and black barred plumage, Pale, unbarred throat, Dark crown and eye-stripe with pale supercilium, Ground-dwelling behavior in high-altitude moorlands, Loud, ringing call
Description
The Moorland Francolin is a medium-sized, ground-dwelling bird characterized by its cryptic brown and black barred plumage. It inhabits high-altitude moorlands and montane grasslands, where it forages for food on the ground, often remaining hidden in dense vegetation.
