Painted Sandgrouse
NamePainted Sandgrouse
Common NamePainted Sandgrouse
Scientific NamePterocles indicus
FamilyPteroclidae
Wingspan (cm)48
Length (cm)27.5
Weight (g)175
Plumage DetailsMales have a distinctive black and white facial pattern, including a white supercilium, black eye-stripe, and a white stripe below the eye, with a black chin. The upperparts and wings are finely barred black and white over a sandy-buff base, providing excellent camouflage. The breast is sandy-buff, transitioning to a solid black belly. The bill is orange with a black tip.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include soft cooing calls and a distinctive whistling 'whirr-whirr' sound, often given in flight or when approaching waterholes.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, grassland, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across the Indian subcontinent, including parts of India, Pakistan, and Nepal, typically in dry, rocky, and scrubby areas.
Identifying FeaturesDistinctive black and white facial pattern, Finely barred black and white upperparts and wings, Solid black belly, Sandy-buff breast and flanks, Orange bill with a black tip
Description
The Painted Sandgrouse is a medium-sized, ground-dwelling bird found in arid and semi-arid regions. It exhibits cryptic plumage, allowing it to blend seamlessly with its rocky and scrubland habitat. These birds are known for their strong flight and gather at waterholes, especially in the mornings.
