Black-bellied bustard

The black-bellied bustard, also known as the black-bellied korhaan, is a captivating ground-dwelling bird native to Africa. It belongs to the bustard family and is sometimes classified in the genus Eupodotis. This bird is relatively large, measuring between 58 and 65 cm in length, and stands out with its striking mix of black, brown, and buff colors.

Males are particularly eye-catching with their black upperparts and underparts, while females display a more subdued buff color with darker mottling. Juveniles are less vibrant, featuring duller tones, dark grey crowns, and buff spots on their wings.

The black-bellied bustard can be found in various habitats across Sub-Saharan Africa, including woodlands, cultivated fields, and tall open grasslands. They are especially common in areas with higher rainfall, such as South Africa, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Tanzania, and Nigeria. Interestingly, they often appear after heavy rains.

In terms of diet, the black-bellied bustard is an omnivore. It feeds on a variety of invertebrates such as beetles, grasshoppers, and ants, and also consumes plant matter such as fruits, berries, seeds, and green leaves.

During courtship, these birds put on quite a show with unique vocalizations and physical movements, adding to their charm. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast or simply curious about wildlife, the black-bellied bustard is undoubtedly a species worth knowing about.