Red-necked Spurfowl
Pternistis afer
Dense bush. Eastern races are dark brown above, streaked black; below black streaked white; all bare parts red.
Francolins, Quails, Spurfowl
LC
Not Endemic
Description
Common resident. At least six different plumage forms occur, but in all, the bill, facial mask, throat and legs are red. Morph distributed as follows: (a) in Swaziland and northeastern South Africa; (b) from eastern Zimbabwe to Beira district; (c) (the smallest) in Kunene River region, Namibia; (d) in southeastern coastal areas. There are also other intermediate morphs. The call is a harsh crowing ‘choorr, choorr, choorr, chwirr’ fading at the end, or when flushed, ‘choor-choor’. If pursued, takes refuge in trees. Small groups occur in valley bush, forest fringes, coastal bush and fallow agricultural lands.
Quick Facts
Size
32-44 cm - M
Names
A: Rooikeelfisant
Z: isikhwehlesimqalabomvu
Ss: Kgwale Ya Mmetsofubedu
G: Nacktkehlfrankolin, Rotkehlfrankolin
Bird Family
Terrestrial birds of mostly gregarious habits (quails excepted). Their crowing or cackling calls are useful identification features. Immatures resemble adults but are usually duller. Quails are nomadic and irruptive, whereas francolins are more sedentary.
Distribution
Gallery
Behaviour
Breeding
Habitat
Small groups occur in valley bush, 'forest' fringes, coastal bush and fallow agricultural lands.
