Southern Black Korhaan
NameSouthern Black Korhaan
Common NameSouthern Black Korhaan
Scientific NameAfrotis afra
FamilyOtididae
Wingspan (cm)60
Length (cm)54
Weight (g)600
Plumage DetailsMales have a glossy black head with a distinct white patch on each side of the neck/cheek. The upperparts and wings are mottled dark brown and black with fine, intricate barring, giving a scaly appearance. The underparts are black. The bill is pale pinkish, and the legs are yellow. Females are similar but generally duller, with a browner head and less contrasting white patches.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a distinctive, loud, harsh, and often frog-like croaking or cackling call, typically described as 'kraak-kraak-kraak' or a prolonged 'krr-r-r-r-r-r-r-r-r'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Western and Eastern Cape provinces of South Africa, primarily found in the semi-arid shrublands, fynbos, and open grasslands of the region.
Identifying FeaturesBlack head with prominent white cheek patches (male), Mottled brown and black body plumage, Pale pinkish bill, Yellow legs, Ground-dwelling behavior, Distinctive harsh croaking call
Description
The Southern Black Korhaan is a medium-sized, ground-dwelling bird endemic to South Africa. Males are striking with a black head and prominent white cheek patches, while their body plumage is intricately mottled brown and black. They are typically found in open grasslands and fynbos, where they forage for insects and plant matter.
