Karoo Bustard
Heterotetrax vigorsii
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About
A small bustard (55-60 cm) endemic to the Karoo semi-desert of southern South Africa and southern Namibia. Sandy-brown plumage. Omnivore of arid scrubland. Males perform a spectacular aerial display. Named after the Victorian collector Nicholas Aylward Vigors.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 68.4 cm | 26.9 in |
| Weight | 1560.0 g | 55.03 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Cuban Lizard-cuckoo: brown above; buff below; very long graduated tail; red facial skin; yellow bill; Cuba endemic species; slender
Habitat & Range
Geographic Range
Endemic to the Karoo semi-desert of southern South Africa and southern Namibia. Resident in arid scrubland.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivore of open grasslands, eating insects, small vertebrates, seeds, and green shoots. Beetles and grasshoppers are staple prey.
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Nest type: SC.
Clutch Size
1-2
Sound
Song
Loud, low booming call; deep bass resonance carrying well across open dry African plains and grassland.
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Otidiformes (Bustards) |
| Family | Otididae (Bustards) |
| Genus | Heterotetrax |
| Species | Heterotetrax vigorsii |
External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Karoo Bustard eat?
Where does the Karoo Bustard live?
Is the Karoo Bustard endangered?
How does the Karoo Bustard nest?
What does the Karoo Bustard sound like?
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What order and family does the Karoo Bustard belong to?
Similar Birds
Other species in the Otididae family