Red-necked spurfowl

The red-necked spurfowl, also referred to as the red-necked francolin, is a game bird native to southern Africa and a member of the pheasant family, Phasianidae. This bird was first described in 1776 by Philipp Ludwig Statius Müller and later classified in the genus *Pternistis* by Johann Georg Wagler in 1832. Recent studies have revealed that it is closely related to the grey-breasted spurfowl. There are four recognized subspecies of the red-necked spurfowl.

This medium-sized bird measures between 25 and 38 cm in length, with some variation among the subspecies. Its plumage is mostly dark, highlighted by a red bill, red facial skin, red neck, and red legs. The underparts are either grey or white with black streaks. The red-necked spurfowl is found across central Africa, extending down the east coast to South Africa, typically in areas with dense cover.

Known for its cautious nature, the red-necked spurfowl prefers thick vegetation but will sometimes venture into open areas as long as there are nearby thickets for retreat. It constructs a simple nest and lays between three and nine eggs. This species is quite common and widespread, which is why it is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.