Blue Bustard
Eupodotis caerulescens
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<birdfyi-bird slug="eupodotis-caerulescens"></birdfyi-bird>About
A medium-sized bustard (55-65 cm) endemic to the grasslands of southern South Africa. Distinctive blue-grey plumage, unique among bustards. Omnivore of highland grasslands. Classified as Near Threatened due to habitat loss from agriculture and urbanization.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 64.6 cm | 25.4 in |
| Weight | 1370.4 g | 48.34 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Jamaican Lizard-cuckoo: brown above; rufous below; very long graduated tail; red orbital ring; yellow bill; Jamaica endemic species
Habitat & Range
Geographic Range
Endemic to the grasslands of southern South Africa from the Eastern Cape to KwaZulu-Natal. Near Threatened.
Diet & Feeding
Feeds on insects, small vertebrates, seeds, and forbs in South African grassland. Beetles and grasshoppers are dietary staples.
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Incubation: 24-28 days.
Clutch Size
1-3
Sound
Song
Loud, low booming call; deep resonant notes carrying impressively across open dry savanna at dawn. Vocalization pattern typical of this species in its native habitat.
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Otidiformes (Bustards) |
| Family | Otididae (Bustards) |
| Genus | Eupodotis |
| Species | Eupodotis caerulescens |
Distribution
Blue Bustard has been recorded in 1 countries.
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External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Blue Bustard eat?
Where does the Blue Bustard live?
Is the Blue Bustard endangered?
How does the Blue Bustard nest?
What does the Blue Bustard sound like?
How big is the Blue Bustard?
What order and family does the Blue Bustard belong to?
Similar Birds
Other species in the Otididae family