Francolinus bicalcaratus.
There are about a dozen different kinds of francolin in West Africa but this species is the only one that could be called common or widespread.
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Bush-Fowl Francolinus bicalcaratus. There are about a dozen different kinds of francolin in West Africa but this species is the only one that could be called common or widespread. |
| Recognition: Medium large. The plumage appears brownish but close inspection reveals a beautiful patterning of the feathers, those of the underparts having markings that are distinctive for this species. There are usually two spurs above the hind toe of old males. |
| Distribution: Throughout West Africa except in thickly forest parts. |
| Habits: These ground birds spend most of their time moving in small parties through grass, farms and the like in search of food. If disturbed they take to the wing with a whirring low flight, often calling hoarsely at the same time. But they tend to keep concealed on the ground unless disturbed. No real nest is made, the five or six eggs being laid in a natural hollow on the ground. Breeding occurs at the beginning of the dry season. |
| Call: A most unmusical croaking call of "Quairk" heard chiefly at dusk and down. |
